Violent Protests Outside Epping Hotel Cost Police £100,000, Eight Officers Injured
The cost of policing anti-migrant protests outside the Bell Hotel in Epping has now reached £100,000, according to Essex Police, as tensions continue to rise following a sexual assault charge against a hotel resident.
The protests, which began as peaceful demonstrations, turned violent on multiple occasions. On Thursday evening, eight officers were injured during clashes with protesters. By Sunday, over 100 demonstrators had gathered, some chanting “Save our kids”.
Criminal Charges and Arrests
The protests follow the charging of 38-year-old asylum seeker Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, who denied sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl when he appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court last week.
In the wake of the court case, six people were arrested on Sunday evening, including a 17-year-old male suspected of damaging a police car. Police say four of the arrests relate to offences during the Thursday protest.
One individual has since appeared in court charged with violent disorder.
“This is hooliganism, not protest”
Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow condemned the disorder, stating:
“What we have seen in Epping over the last week is not protest – it’s hooliganism, and those responsible will be held accountable.
The officers you are targeting are people with families, who live in our communities, and want to keep them safe.”
Anslow confirmed that £100,000 in policing resources had been used to manage the unrest — funds that, he said, “would be better spent on cutting crime across Essex.”
He warned those “peddling untruths on social media” that they would not succeed in undermining public confidence.
“We don’t take sides. We arrest criminals and protect communities. It’s that simple.”
Ongoing Policing Presence
Police said there will be a visible presence in Epping in the coming days as investigations continue and to maintain public order.
The Bell Hotel, believed to be housing asylum seekers under a Home Office arrangement, has been at the centre of growing public concern — amplified by online misinformation and far-right mobilisation, according to police intelligence.
If you witnessed any of the incidents or have information, contact Essex Police on 101, or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
