Violence in UK triggers FG travel alert for Nigerians

The Federal Government issued a travel warning for its citizens in the United Kingdom, on August 5, 2024, due to increased violence and disorder after recent riots.

The travel alert was issued by the spokesperson for Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Eche Abu-Ode.

Violent protests erupted across Britain after a knife attack at a children’s dance class in Southport, northwest England, on July 29, 2024.

As a result of this attack, three girls lost their lives and ten people were left injured.

Anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim groups exploited the girls’ deaths, spreading misinformation that the suspect was an immigrant and radical Islamist. 

Police have clarified that the suspect was born in Britain and are not considering it a terrorist incident.

In response to the situation, the government advised citizens to avoid political processions, protests, rallies, and marches. 

They should also stay away from crowded areas and large gatherings, and remain vigilant at all times.

The statement said in part: “There is an increased risk of violence and disorder occasioned by the recent riots in the UK, stemming from the killing of three young girls at a concert.

“The violence has assumed dangerous proportions as evidenced by reported attacks on Law enforcement agents and damage to infrastructure.

“To this end, citizens are advised to be extra vigilant and take measures as follows: 

“Avoid political processions and protests, rallies or marches. Avoid crowded areas and large gatherings. 

“Be vigilant and self-aware at all times.”

The ministry urged citizens to reach out to the Nigerian High Commission in the UK for information via email (hc@nigeriahc.org.uk) or phone (+442078391244).

Trigger for Britain’s violent protest

On Sunday, a series of violent protests erupted across Britain, sparked by the tragic stabbing of three children in Southport.

The stabbing attack happened during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport.

Axel Rudakubana, 17, allegedly attacked the children with a knife, leading to the tragic deaths of Alice Dasilva Aguiar (9), Elsie Dot Stancombe (7), and Bebe King (6).

Eight other children and two adults sustained injuries during the incident.

Rudakubana’s motives remain unclear, and he has been charged with murder and attempted murder.

The attack shocked the nation, and misinformation about the suspect’s identity led to far-right protests.

The misinformation included false claims that the attacker was a Muslim immigrant.

However, in reality, the suspect, Axel Rudakubana, is a British-born teenager of Rwandan descent.

The protests, fueled by far-right groups, seized on the incident and organized demonstrations that turned violent.

Thus, there were clashes with police, particularly in Southport and Hartlepool.

Following the incident, police and government officials have been on high alert.

Authorities have arrested several individuals involved in the violent demonstrations.

A special police unit has been established to manage the unrest and prevent further violence.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the far-right actions and emphasized the importance of preventing the spread of misinformation, which had exacerbated the situation.

There is concern that these protests, often organized online, may continue, with demonstrators using slogans like “enough is enough” and “save our kids” to justify their actions.

The aftermath of Southport stabbing

During the protests following the Southport stabbing, violent activities included clashes with police, vandalism, and arson.

In Southport, far-right demonstrators attacked a mosque, throwing bottles, beer cans, and flares.

Meanwhile, in Hartlepool, protesters set a police car on fire and pelted officers with bottles and eggs.

In London, crowds gathered near the Prime Minister’s office, leading to confrontations with police forces.

There were reports of physical assaults, verbal abuse, and harassment aimed at people of color emerged in several cities, including Southport, Liverpool, Hull, and Bristol.

Additionally, in Manchester, far-right activists clashed with anti-racism groups, resulting in further violence.

The protests saw the involvement of groups like the English Defence League and the neo-Nazi Patriotic Alternative.

As a result, these groups exploited the Southport tragedy to incite racial hatred and violence.

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