Police officers were pelted with bricks, glass bottles, fireworks and eggs as Kill the Bill demonstrations continued yesterday in Bristol.
Over 1,000 people took to the streets of Bristol’s city centre and after 10pm, police in riot gear arrived.
Trouble was sparked when police called for the crowds to disperse.
Avon and Somerset Police tweeted last night: “Projectiles, including eggs and glass bottles, are being thrown at officers. Protestors are also pulling at officers’ shields while lasers are being shone in their faces. We will not tolerate violent disorder. Arrests have been made.”
10 people were arrested in connection with the violence.
This disorder follows last week’s Kill the Bill demo which lead to twenty police officers being seriously injured.
The Kill the Bill demo centres around anger about the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill which gives police more powers to deal with demonstrations, including those that are non-violent.
The bill has been widely criticised.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned the scenes in Bristol, tweeting: “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.”
Home Secretary Priti Patel added:
“I am disgusted by the disorder in Bristol and the violence being directed towards the police. I’m in no doubt the silent, law-abiding majority will be appalled by the actions of this criminal minority.
“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.”