Police in Essex have arrested a third suspect after violent clashes erupted outside a hotel housing asylum seekers in Epping, as concerns rise over inflammatory content spreading across social media platforms. The unrest follows the arrest of a 33-year-old man from Loughton on suspicion of violent disorder and criminal damage.
The incident occurred on Thursday, when a peaceful protest by local residents—including women and children—outside the Bell Hotel turned chaotic. A faction broke away from the demonstration, resulting in the assault of eight police officers and the destruction of several police vehicles.
Far-right groups, including members of Britain First, were reportedly present at the scene. Tensions further escalated when masked men attempted to confront a smaller anti-racism protest that had begun at Epping Station and proceeded through the town before being dispersed by police.
Police Deny Favoritism Amid “Two-Tier” Policing Claims
Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow responded to public backlash accusing officers of favoring the anti-racism demonstrators, asserting that the police acted “without fear or favour.” He added, “We are seeing inflammatory comments online which are simply untrue. Our duty is to uphold the law and facilitate peaceful protest.”
The violence comes amid heightened local tensions following the court appearance of Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old Ethiopian asylum seeker charged with three counts of sexual assault. Kebatu, who denies the charges, has been remanded in custody pending trial next month.
Police Brace for Further Unrest
Essex Police say they have identified additional suspects involved in the disorder and are pursuing arrests. With calls for another protest outside the hotel on Sunday evening circulating online, authorities remain on high alert.
Dean Walters, 65, from Harlow, was separately charged with affray over an earlier protest and is due to appear in court in September. Another man arrested for breaching a dispersal order was released on conditional bail.
MP Demands Hotel Closure Amid Mounting Tensions
Local MP Neil Hudson condemned the violence, calling it “completely unacceptable” and urging the Home Office to close the hotel. “These scenes are not who we are,” he posted on X. “Police put themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe. People have the right to peacefully protest, but violence is not the answer.”
