Footage shows a firework exploding yards away from a police horse
Police were targeted with bricks, bottles and fireworks amidst a third ‘Kill the Bill’ demonstration in Bristol on Friday night.
Over 1,000 people gathered in the city centre for the rally, with officers struck with missiles after attempts to disperse the crowds at around 10pm.
Police have added that only a minority of protesters displayed hostility towards them and that ten arrests were made.
Boris Johnson has since condemned the violence, describing them as “disgraceful attacks”.
“Last night saw disgraceful attacks against police officers in Bristol,” the Prime Minister tweeted.
“Our officers should not have to face having bricks, bottles and fireworks being thrown at them by a mob intent on violence and causing damage to property.”
Last night saw disgraceful attacks against police officers in Bristol.
Our officers should not have to face having bricks, bottles and fireworks being thrown at them by a mob intent on violence and causing damage to property.
The police and the city have my full support.
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) March 27, 2021
Home Secretary Priti Patel echoed the Prime Minister’s condemnation.
“I’m in no doubt the silent, law-abiding majority will be appalled by the actions of this criminal minority,” she said.
“Despite repeated warnings to disperse, it’s clear these thugs were only intent on causing trouble.
“I am receiving regular updates and the police have my full support.”
Footage below shows a firework being set off a matter of yards from a police horse, causing the animal to panic.
This morning we are hearing that all the horses and dogs and their officers have returned to their bases safely after a very busy night that saw them pelted with glass bottles, rocks and fireworks.
We are very proud of you all. Thank you @ASPoliceDogs @ASPoliceHorses @ASPolice pic.twitter.com/ra9yvObZtU— Fabulous Finn®️ (@K9Finn) March 27, 2021
The protest had started on College Green earlier on Friday before gradually moving in the direction of Bridewell police station – the scene of last Sunday’s disorder.
Anticipating this, police wearing riot clothing denied access to the road leading to the station, with protesters responding by sitting in front of them.
At 10pm, when officers attempted to move protesters on, trouble began.
Topics:
kill the billRELATED ARTICLES
MORE FROM JOE
MORE FROM JOE
