Epping Clashes Escalate as Locals Turn on Rioters Targeting Migrant Hotel
A second night of unrest erupted outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex on Sunday, with violent scenes prompting condemnation from local residents and police alike. Protesters hurling rocks, smoke flares, and abuse at officers were met with shouts of “Go home!” from fed-up neighbours watching from windows above the escalating confrontation.
The Bell Hotel, currently used to house asylum seekers, has been the focal point of a growing series of anti-migrant protests following the arrest of Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, charged earlier this month with attempting to kiss a 14-year-old girl. Sunday night’s rally marked the latest in a string of protests that began peacefully but descended into violent disorder.
Locals Clash With Rioters
As hundreds of demonstrators returned to the Bell Hotel, tensions ran high not only between protesters and police, but also between residents and the mob. One frustrated local shouted from his flat window, “Some of us have work in the morning,” as smoke flares lit the night and police formed lines to hold back the crowd.
A counter-protester from Stand Up To Racism was targeted with missiles and had to be escorted away by police to safety.
Police Vehicles Attacked, Helicopter Chase Ends in Arrest
One police car’s windscreen was smashed, while five arrests were made in total. Four individuals were detained in connection with the Thursday protest that had turned violent, while a fifth was arrested on the night after damaging an unmarked police vehicle during a helicopter-assisted pursuit.
A woman walking near the protest area was also attacked with abuse and projectiles, prompting police to shield and guide her to safety.
Essex Police: “Our Cells Are Ready”
Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow of Essex Police condemned the violence, stating:
“We’ve seen yet another protest escalate into mindless thuggery. For those who think we’ll tolerate this—think again. Our cells have been filling up all evening, and that’s where many of you will be sleeping tonight.”
He added that Essex Police remains impartial and is focused solely on arresting criminals and protecting the public, refuting what he called “rubbish circulating online” designed to inflame tensions.
Face Coverings Ban Enforced
A Section 60AA order remains in place, giving police the power to require the removal of face coverings. Officers noted that a number of protesters wore balaclavas and masks, directly violating the dispersal order.
“Anyone refusing to remove face coverings risks arrest and possible imprisonment,” said an Essex Police spokesperson.
https:///youtu.be/Rs8KwJeBB2w
Police Hunt Three Suspects in Ongoing Investigation
Police have released images of three men wanted in connection with violent disorder and assaults on officers during Thursday’s riot. Eight officers were injured, and multiple vehicles damaged during that event.
Community in Shock: “We’ve Had Enough”
Local residents watching the chaos unfold voiced disbelief and anger. One woman said:
“This is not acceptable. We have families here. These thugs were shouting, chucking things… it’s disgusting.”
Another added:
“It’s not ideal living near a migrant hotel, but it’s far worse having rioters turn the street into a war zone.”
Hotel staff confirmed the car park remains off-limits out of fear of further unrest.
Timeline of Events
- Thursday 17 July: Peaceful protest escalates into riot. Police deploy 180+ officers, 8 injured.
- Sunday 20 July: Renewed protest leads to more violence, 5 arrests, police car smashed.
- Section 60AA order remains in place until Monday morning.
Ongoing Coverage
Essex Police urge anyone with information or footage to visit www.essex.police.uk or call 101, quoting protest-related references.
