Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, NPCC Chair said:
“Every community across the country will have been affected in
some way by the violent disorder we have seen in this past
week.
“I want to reassure the public that a united and robust policing
response is in place across the country and we are doing all we
can to tackle this disorder and keep you safe.
“All forces have been requested not only to increase the number
of specialist resources in their local area, but to contribute to
regional reserves, coordinated nationally.
“So far 378 arrests have been made and we expect that total to
rise each day as forces continue to identify those involved and
continue to apprehend those responsible. Work is going on around
the clock to do this and those involved will be brought to
justice.
“We have been clear that this is not protest activity or people
exercising their democratic right. It is unnecessary violence and
we've seen important community hubs like a Citizen's Advice
Bureau and a library completely destroyed.
“Policing is not anti-protest, we are anti-crime and we are here
to protect the public and keep the peace no matter your
beliefs.
“Violent disorder is a serious offence which often comes with a
lengthy jail term so be assured we are taking these offences
seriously have full support of our criminal justice partners to
do this.
“The people involved in this criminality do not represent the
views of our communities and it has been heartening to see people
coming together to support each other and their local
forces.
“This is a challenging time for forces and I want to extend my
thanks to the officers and staff who have carried out their roles
with dignity, bravery and professionalism in the face of
sustained violence and assaults.
“There have been a number of officers injured, some have been
hospitalised after putting themselves in harm's way to protect
others, and I wish them a full recovery.
“Officers do not go to work to be assaulted or attacked and it is
completely unacceptable.”
