Police made five arrests after disorder broke out during protests outside several hotels in Stockley Road, UB7, on Saturday, 30 August.
Protest Activity
At around 12pm, two anti-asylum groups marched to the Crowne Plaza hotel, where a group of masked men attempted to force entry via the rear entrance, damaging security hoardings.
Officers who were already in the area deployed additional units to contain the situation.
A breakaway group of protesters then moved towards the Novotel on Cherry Lane, before some shifted to the Holiday Inn. Police enforced cordons around the sites to prevent breaches of the peace.
Arrests and Injuries
- Three arrests were made during the breakaway protest activity.
- Two further arrests were made as officers dispersed the crowd later in the afternoon.
- Two officers suffered minor injuries during the disorder.
In total, five people have been arrested on suspicion of offences including assault on a police officer, affray and violent disorder.
Police confirmed protesters did not gain entry to any of the hotels.
Dispersal Order in Place
A Section 35 dispersal order was introduced, giving officers powers to order people to leave the area if they are suspected of causing disorder.
The police helicopter supported officers on the ground, and a visible police presence remains in the area.
Police Statement
Commander Adam Slonecki, who oversaw policing in London this weekend, said:
“We have prepared with additional resources to police protests at migrant hotels over the last few weeks and this weekend is no exception.
We understand strength of feeling on these issues, but where peaceful protest crosses the line into criminality, including injuries to our officers, we will take immediate action.
We deployed additional officers to the area and five arrests have been made for offences including assault on a police officer, affray and violent disorder.
Around 500 protesters were in the area, but most people have now dispersed from the immediate vicinity. However, further arrests will be made if we need to tackle disorder. Local residents and businesses can expect to see our continued presence and patrols in the area.”
