Further arrests in Thetford have been made after a third consecutive night of disorder linked to anti-immigration protests. Police increased security across the Norfolk market town and moved asylum seekers from several properties for their safety.
Norfolk Police confirmed two additional arrests, bringing the total number of people detained to five. Officers said protesters targeted homes where they believed asylum seekers were staying and attacked police attempting to restore order.
Police Make More Arrests
Police arrested two men in their 40s after violence continued in Thetford on Thursday night.
Officers had already arrested three people during earlier disturbances. One suspect remains in custody, while a 68-year-old man has been charged with possessing an offensive weapon after police recovered a wooden bat.
Investigators are continuing to examine video footage and warned that further arrests could follow.
Officers Injured During Violent Clashes
The demonstrations became violent as protesters threw rocks, eggs and other objects at police officers.
One male officer suffered injuries after being struck by a rock. A female officer also sustained serious injuries after someone bit her and broke the skin.
Police used additional public-order powers to control the crowds. Officers also introduced restrictions on face coverings and ordered suspected troublemakers to leave the area.
Asylum Seekers Relocated for Safety
Police moved asylum seekers from several properties in Thetford after crowds repeatedly attempted to enter homes where they believed asylum seekers were staying.
Chief Constable Paul Sanford urged residents not to make assumptions about people living in the community.
He stressed that everyone deserves protection regardless of their background and warned against targeting individuals or properties.
Local Concerns Fuel Demonstrations
The protests have been driven partly by concerns about immigration, housing and community safety.
Some residents argue that asylum seekers receive accommodation while local families struggle to find affordable housing. Others say they have received insufficient information about housing arrangements.
The unrest comes as the government considers converting the former RAF Barnham military base into accommodation for up to 3,750 asylum seekers, adding to local concerns about the potential impact on the area.
Political Leaders Condemn Violence
South West Norfolk MP Terry Jermy condemned the disorder and warned that the violence had damaged Thetford’s reputation.
He said the unrest had frightened local families, particularly people from minority ethnic communities who feared becoming targets.
Thetford Mayor Vic Peters supported the right to peaceful protest but condemned attacks on police officers and damage to public property.
Reform councillor Scott Hussey criticised the Home Office over what he described as poor communication with residents. However, he also stressed that demonstrations should remain peaceful.
Police Promise Firm Action
Chief Constable Sanford said police would continue protecting residents for as long as necessary.
He warned that anyone attacking officers or damaging property could face criminal prosecution.
The Home Office also condemned the violence while acknowledging that residents have legitimate concerns about immigration.
Officials stressed that peaceful protest is a democratic right, but violence, intimidation and criminal damage will not be tolerated.
