Key facts
- A teenage boy was arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker during anti-immigration protests in Thetford.
- The protests involved attempts to storm homes linked to asylum seekers.
- Police officers were subjected to significant aggression, including being hit with a rock, bitten, and spat at.
- Two further arrests were made in connection with the violent disorder.
- Increased policing powers are in place in Thetford until Tuesday.
- Asylum seekers were removed from properties for their own safety.
A teenage boy has been arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker amid anti-immigration disorder in Thetford, Norfolk. The unrest, which occurred over several nights last week, saw protesters attempt to storm homes believed to be housing asylum seekers.
Norfolk Police reported that officers faced significant aggression, including being hit with a rock, bitten, and spat at, during the disturbances. In addition to the teenager, a man in his 20s was arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker and possession of Class A and B drugs. Two men in their 40s and a woman were also arrested in connection with the disorder.
Deputy Chief Constable Dave Marshall stated that officers are reviewing footage to identify further individuals involved and that further arrests are expected. Increased policing powers, including Section 34 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, remain in place in Thetford. Asylum seekers were removed from properties for their own safety during the unrest.
In a separate but related incident, Thomas Brown pleaded guilty to drug possession, driving without insurance, and failing to provide a breath test, receiving 10 penalty points and a £60 fine.