A 44-year-old man has been arrested by Thames Valley Police following reports of public order offences in Oxford linked to the controversial flag campaign by the group Raise the Colours.
Police Launch Investigation Over Flag Installations
Thames Valley Police confirmed they launched an investigation last week after reports of disturbances on Abingdon Road. Officers arrested the man from
Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, on suspicion of racially and religiously aggravated harassment, alarm, or distress. He has since been released on police bail.
Council Issues Legal Warning to Raise the Colours
Oxfordshire County Council has served a formal legal notice demanding that the group stop erecting flags across the county. The flags have repeatedly appeared on or near highways without permission, prompting the council to warn of potential civil or criminal action against individuals involved.
“The widespread installation of flags by Raise the Colours is not a sign of patriotism. It is an act of intimidation and division that is having a real and damaging impact on our communities,” said Council Leader Liz Leffman.
“Residents feel distressed, unwelcome, and unsafe. Our teams tasked with removing the flags have faced abuse and threats, which is totally unacceptable.”
“We won’t hesitate to take further legal steps to protect our communities and maintain cohesion.”
Police Call for Public Help, Caution Against Social Sharing
Thames Valley Police urged anyone with information or footage related to the incidents to report directly to officers with reference number 43260144830. They cautioned against sharing such material on social media to avoid escalating tensions.
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