A far-right protest in Epping, Essex descended into violence last night as hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside The Bell Hotel, which currently houses asylum seekers. The unrest was sparked by the arrest of Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old Ethiopian man charged with multiple sexual offences, including assaulting a minor just days after arriving in the UK.
What began as a local protest quickly escalated into a coordinated far-right demonstration, with masked men, loudspeakers, and banners reading “Protect Our Kids.” Riot police were deployed as tensions flared between anti-immigrant protesters and counter-protesters from Stand Up To Racism, who held signs reading “Refugees Welcome: Stop the Far-Right.”
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The clashes turned violent:
Police vans were attacked, with protesters climbing on top and smashing windows.
Fireworks, bottles, and eggs were thrown at officers and counter-demonstrators.
One officer sustained a neck injury, and at least one man was arrested on suspicion of affray.
Essex Police Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow condemned the violence:
“Disruption and offending is never an appropriate response… We will never tolerate criminal behaviour of any sort.”
Local Conservative leaders, including Epping Forest Council’s Chris Whitbread, have called for the immediate closure of The Bell Hotel, citing safety concerns and a lack of infrastructure. A petition demanding its shutdown has already gathered over 4,500 signatures.
The incident follows a racially aggravated attack on two hotel security guards earlier this week, and comes amid rising tensions over asylum accommodation in small towns. Critics warn that far-right groups are exploiting local fears to stoke division and violence.
