Protests against immigration have led to riots in Britain over the last week. Far-rights groups have specifically targeted hotels that shelter asylum seekers and mosques. The violence has extended to many towns and cities, highlighting rising tensions and unrest about immigration. 

How Did a Tragic Incident Lead to Nationwide Riots? 

The recent UK riots link to an anti-immigration protest sparked by a tragic incident in Southport. On July 29, three young girls, aged six to nine, lost their lives at a Taylor Swift-themed dance event in Northern England. 

Additionally, eight other children and two adults were hurt in the incident. A 17-year-old boy has been arrested and charged with murder and attempted murder. 

Misinformation on social media claimed that the suspect was an Islamist migrant, leading to violent anti-muslim protests in Southport and an attempted attack on the local mosque. 

Later, authorities confirmed that the suspect was born in Britain and do not consider the incident an act of terrorism. 

Protest spread to Over 20 Cities across the UK 

In the aftermath of the unrest in Southport, thousands of people gathered outside Stamer’s Downing Street office in London the following day, resulting in more than 100 arrests during confrontations with police.  

The riots have since expanded to over 20 cities across the UK in Britain, including Sunderland, Manchester, Plymouth and Belfast. The protests have drawn a few hundred people targeted migrants and Muslims, leading to incidents of arson, vandalism and looting, especially at mosques and businesses owned by Asians. 

Reuters reports that attackers broke windows and set a garbage bin on fire at a hotel in Rotherham that was accommodating migrants. Authorities have arrested around 400 people and charged over 120 people in connection with the riots. 

Who is the culprit behind the rioting? 

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has linked the violence to “far-right thuggery.” Some activists, such as Stephan Yaxley-Lennon, also known as Tommy Robinson, have been promoting the protests through social media, which results in increasing tensions through misinformation. 

Social media platforms are facing criticism for not stopping the spread of false information, as their algorithms often boost misleading content.  

As per the sources from Reuters, law enforcement has recognized many of the rioters as far-right groups from outside the local areas, although some residents and youths have also participated in the riots. Anti-fascist groups and Asian communities have organized counter-protests in response.

Far-right group beliefs and UK government response to the riots 

Numerous rioters see themselves as patriots, voicing worries that too much immigration is threatening British society. Far-right groups assert that immigration leads to a rise in violence and crime.  

Some critics say that the rioters hide their extremist beliefs behind a facade of patriotism as their looting and assaults expose their real intentions. 

A recent YouGov survey found that 75% of people think the rioters do not reflect the views of the most British citizens, with just 7% backing the violence. 

The UK Government is taking firm legal steps in response. Prime Minister Stammer has vowed to impose severe penalties on rioters and intends to increase prison capacity. The authorities are sending specialized officers to manage the crisis.  

A 58-year-old man has received a three-year sentence for his involvement in the riots. Additionally, the government is focusing on individuals who incited violence online, with legal action on those spreading racial hatred.  

Science minister Peter Kyle has spoken with TikTok, Meta, Google and X representatives to emphasize their responsibility in preventing incitement and misinformation.