Violent Clashes Erupt Again Outside Epping Migrant Hotel as Police Hunt Suspects and Enforce Section 60AA Order
Tensions escalated once more outside the Bell Hotel in Epping on Sunday night (20 July) as anti-migrant protesters hurled bottles and smoke flares at police in a second night of disorder. The hotel is currently being used to house asylum seekers and has become a flashpoint for community unrest in recent weeks.
Hundreds gathered near the premises chanting slogans such as “Send them home” and “Defend our girls,” sparking a renewed police response. Officers were met with projectiles and verbal abuse as they formed lines to keep protesters away from the hotel entrance. Many demonstrators carried placards bearing anti-immigration messages, while some wore face coverings in defiance of a Section 60AA order put in place earlier in the day.
Violent Disorder and Criminal Damage Investigations Continue
Police have released images of three men they are urgently seeking in connection with the violent disorder and assaults on emergency workers that took place during the initial protest on Thursday, 17 July. That incident saw eight officers injured and multiple police vehicles damaged as the crowd descended into chaos following the arrest of Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old asylum seeker accused of attempting to kiss a 14-year-old girl.
“We continue to have a dedicated team of detectives working around the clock to find all of those who came to Epping last week intent on causing violence and disorder,” said Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow.
“There is a difference between peaceful protest and mindless thuggery. We are grateful to those who have already submitted footage, and we urge anyone with information to come forward.”
Specialist Riot Officers Deployed, Vehicles Damaged
Police from Essex Police, the Met’s Territorial Support Group, and Hertfordshire Constabulary were all deployed in riot gear on Thursday and again on Sunday to manage the crowds.
On Thursday, an Essex Police van was attacked, with one individual seen kicking in the windscreen, while another protester jumped onto a Metropolitan Police riot van. An improvised roadblock on Epping High Street was breached when a police vehicle made contact with a protester who failed to move aside.
One hotel staff member told reporters that the car park had been sealed off over safety concerns and described the situation as “terrifying for those inside.”
Section 60AA Enforced — Arrests Made
Essex Police imposed a Section 60AA order across Epping and surrounding areas, including Epping Underground Station, requiring individuals to remove face coverings. The order remains in place until the morning of Monday, 21 July.
“Anyone who refuses to remove a face covering when required is likely to be arrested and, if convicted, could face imprisonment,” an Essex Police spokesperson confirmed.
One 33-year-old man from Loughton, Keith Silk, has already been charged with violent disorder and criminal damage in connection with Thursday’s events. He is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court today. Another protester was arrested last night and remains in custody.
Community Reaction
Local residents have voiced mixed feelings. One woman described the situation as “disgusting”, adding: “We have families here. This thuggish behaviour isn’t protest—it’s intimidation.”
Another resident said: “While it’s not ideal having a migrant hotel next door, it’s far worse to have violent mobs throwing things and laying siege to the area.”
Appeal for Witnesses and Evidence
Police continue to appeal for photos and video evidence of the disturbances. Anyone with information is asked to contact Essex Police on 101 or submit evidence via www.essex.police.uk quoting reference EF100–EF102 for the wanted suspects.
As the situation unfolds, authorities maintain that peaceful protest is lawful, but any threats to public safety will be met with “swift and robust” action.
