Man Charged with Violent Disorder After Clashes Outside Essex Migrant Hotel
A 33-year-old man has been charged following violent clashes that erupted outside the Bell Hotel in Epping on Thursday night, where a protest over the use of the hotel as migrant accommodation escalated into scenes of disorder.
Keith Silk, of Torrington Drive, Loughton, has been charged with violent disorder and criminal damage following his arrest on Saturday. He remains in custody and is due to appear before Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
The charges follow serious unrest outside the Bell Hotel, where eight police officers were injured during a confrontation between anti-migrant protesters and a smaller counter-demonstration by anti-racism activists.
Linked to Previous Controversy
The protest was sparked after Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old Ethiopian asylum seeker staying at the hotel, was charged with multiple sexual offences, including the alleged attempted kiss of a 14-year-old girl. Kebatu, who appeared in court on July 10, has denied the charges, which include:
- Three counts of sexual assault
- One count of inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity
- One count of harassment without violence
The incident has since provoked multiple demonstrations, with some residents calling for the closure of the Bell Hotel as a migrant facility.
Tensions Escalate
Thursday evening’s protest initially began peacefully but descended into violence after counter-protesters arrived. Essex Police deployed over 100 officers, including public order units, to contain the unrest.
A second man, Dean Walters, 65, of Harlow, was arrested nearby on Sunday evening and charged with affray following a separate reported assault. He has been released on conditional bail to appear in court on September 24.
Another individual was also arrested on Thursday night for failing to comply with police dispersal orders and remains in custody.
Police Response and Community Message
Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow, leading the policing response, condemned the violence:
“The events in Epping on Thursday were shocking and have no place in our neighbourhoods. We understand community concerns and support the right to peaceful protest, but we will not tolerate violence or criminality.”
“Our officers acted impartially and decisively to keep opposing groups apart and ensure public safety. We continue to appeal for witnesses and footage from the scene.”
Ongoing Investigation
Essex Police have confirmed their investigation remains active and that they are reviewing CCTV, social media footage, and witness statements to identify further suspects involved in the disorder.
Members of the public with information are encouraged to contact the force or Crimestoppers anonymously.
Anyone with information should contact Essex Police on 101 quoting reference 42/117933/25 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
