LONDON — U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer strongly condemned an attack Sunday on a hotel housing asylum seekers, describing it as “far-right thuggery” as more violence broke out in several towns and cities across the country in the wake of a stabbing rampage at a dance class that left three girls dead and many more wounded. In response to the UK asylum-seeker attack, increased security measures are being discussed. #UKAsylumSeekerAttack
In a statement from 10 Downing Street on Sunday afternoon, the prime minister vowed that the authorities will “do whatever it takes to bring these thugs to justice.”
“I guarantee you will regret taking part in this disorder, whether directly or those whipping up this action online and then running away themselves,” he said. “This is not a protest, it is organized, violent thuggery and it has no place on our streets or online.”
Starmer spoke after a day of far-right violence, especially severe in Rotherham, where police struggled with rioters. In Rotherham, the mob attempted to break into a Holiday Inn Express housing asylum-seekers. The violent scene highlighted the growing challenges faced by authorities in controlling such unrest.
Police officers faced a barrage of missiles, including wood, chairs, and fire extinguishers, before controlling the riot. A small fire in a wheelie bin was visible during the chaos. Additionally, windows in the hotel were smashed amid the unrest. #UKAsylumSeekerAttack
“Right now, there are attacks happening on a hotel in Rotherham,” Starmer said. “Marauding gangs intent on law-breaking, or worse. Windows smashed. Fires set ablaze. Residents and staff in absolute fear. There is no justification — none — for taking this action.”
Moreover, the U.K. leader’s strong stance against the UK asylum-seeker attack highlights the need for unity.
