Two police officers have been injured following a second night of disorder in Thetford, as officers responded to reports of a large group attempting to force entry into a residential property.

Significant police resources were deployed across the Norfolk town on Wednesday evening (5 August) to maintain public safety after a large crowd gathered in Clover Way.

At around 9.30pm, officers were called to reports that members of the group were attempting to gain access to a home. As police intervened, some individuals became violent towards officers.

A male officer was struck by a rock, while a female officer suffered a serious bite that broke the skin. Both officers were taken to hospital for treatment. A third officer was also spat at during the disorder.

Earlier in the evening, a large anti-immigration protest had taken place outside Thetford Police Station. Police said the demonstration was largely peaceful before the later violence erupted.

Two people were arrested during Wednesday night’s disorder on suspicion of offences including public order, harassment and possession of an offensive weapon.

A man in his 30s remains in police custody, while Brian Thompson, 68, of Fairfields, Thetford, has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon after allegedly being found with a wooden bat.

He has been released on bail and is due to appear before Norwich Magistrates’ Court on 25 August 2026.

The disorder follows similar incidents on Tuesday 4 August, when properties were damaged after windows were smashed, fences were broken and attempts were allegedly made to force entry into a residential property.

Assistant Chief Constable Julie Dean, who is overseeing the police response, condemned the violence.

She said: “We will always facilitate and support the right to peaceful protest, and we recognise that people may hold strong views and feelings about issues. However, no matter how strongly those views are held, there is no place for violence, intimidation or criminal behaviour.

“Our role is to keep people safe. We have a duty to protect everyone in our communities, maintain public order and prevent harm. We will not stand by and allow violence to take place, whether that is directed towards members of the public, local residents or police officers carrying out their duties.

“Where criminal offences are committed, we will take robust action. Our focus remains on maintaining public safety and ensuring people can go about their lives without fear of violence or disorder.”

Police also confirmed that a man in his 30s, who was arrested following Tuesday night’s incidents on suspicion of a public order offence, has since been released and issued with a conditional caution.

Investigations into both nights of disorder remain ongoing. Officers are appealing for anyone with information, CCTV, mobile phone or dashcam footage to contact Norfolk Constabulary online or by calling 101.