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Avon and Somerset Police have arrested 16 individuals in connection with the violent disorder that erupted in Bristol city centre last night. The arrests were made as part of an ongoing investigation into the events that saw significant criminal activity and assaults on law enforcement officers.

Details of the Arrests

The offences for which the individuals were arrested include:

• Affray
• Racially-aggravated public order
• Animal cruelty
• Assaulting an emergency worker
• Violent disorder

Investigation and Evidence

Detectives are currently reviewing all available footage to identify and address all acts of criminality that took place during the disorder. Objects, including glass bottles, were thrown, and an officer had a laser shone in their eyes. Additionally, a police horse was punched, and two police dogs were kicked during the chaos.

Official Statement

Chief Inspector Vicks Hayward-Melen provided the following statement:

This was a dynamic police operation and significant policing resources were put in place. We have a long history of facilitating peaceful protest in Bristol, but what we saw last night was not a protest, and we will never accept such shameful scenes. Those responsible can expect a knock at the door from us soon – we will be relentless in identifying and bringing to justice those who brought criminal violence and disorder to the streets of Bristol yesterday.

Chief Inspector Hayward-Melen also expressed pride in her colleagues who faced significant violence and acknowledged the hard work of everyone involved in the policing operation and ongoing investigation.

Community Impact and Response

Despite the violence, Chief Inspector Hayward-Melen noted that there was no significant damage to the city, apart from one police vehicle. She extended her gratitude to the communities, partners, and stakeholders for their support during and after the incident.

“I am incredibly proud of my colleagues who were faced with significant violence and want to also recognise everyone who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to deliver the policing operation yesterday and those who are continuing the investigation today. Thankfully we’re not aware of any significant damage being caused in the city other than to one police vehicle and I’d like to thank our communities and all our partners and stakeholders for their support.”

Appeal for Information

Avon and Somerset Police continue to urge anyone with information about the incidents or those who may have captured relevant footage to come forward.