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A third person has been arrested in connection with incidents of violence and criminal damage that followed a peaceful protest in Epping on Thursday, 17 July 2025.
The disorder occurred outside The Bell Hotel on the High Road, where residents had gathered to express their concerns. The situation escalated when a separate group reportedly disrupted the event, leading to clashes and damage in the town centre.
On Saturday, 19 July, Essex Police confirmed the arrest of a 33-year-old man from Loughton on suspicion of violent disorder and criminal damage. He remains in custody and is being questioned by detectives.
Two Previous Arrests
Two other individuals were arrested on the day of the protest:
- Dean Walters, 65, of Corner Meadow, Harlow, has been charged with affray and is scheduled to appear in court in September.
- A second man, arrested for breaching a dispersal order, has been released on conditional bail.
Police Response and Public Order Tactics
Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow issued a statement condemning the violence:
"The events in Epping on Thursday were shocking and have no place in our neighbourhoods. While we respect the right to peaceful protest, we will not tolerate criminality.
He added that officers from Essex Police, Metropolitan Police, and British Transport Police faced significant hostility and used established public order tactics to protect public safety.
"We police without fear or favour and acted to separate opposing groups to prevent violence. We remain impartial at all times."
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
Essex Police has launched a dedicated Public Portal to collect video footage or witness information, urging anyone who witnessed the disorder or has relevant material to come forward.
"We’re grateful to those who’ve already helped, but we know more people saw what happened," said a police spokesperson.
Background: Protest Context
The protest stemmed from community reaction to a recent alleged incident involving a resident at The Bell Hotel, who has since been arrested, charged, and remanded. That criminal case is ongoing.
Police reiterated that the early stages of the protest were peaceful, and that the community’s right to protest would continue to be protected — but disorder would not be tolerated.
Contact Information:
Submit evidence via the Essex Police Public Portal or call 101. To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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