Far-Right Riots Disrupt Southport as Town Mourns Tragic Knife Attack That Killed Three Young Girls

Southport, England, faced chaos on Tuesday night as far-right protesters clashed with police, disrupting a town already reeling from a tragic knife attack. The violence erupted just hours after a vigil was held to honor three young girls killed in the attack at a children’s dance class.

The unrest began when several hundred far-right demonstrators targeted a local mosque, setting fires and hurling objects at police. The confrontation resulted in injuries to 27 officers, with 15 requiring hospital treatment. A police vehicle was also set alight during the clash.

The violence occurred after a peaceful vigil in Southport town center, where residents gathered to mourn six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe, and nine-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar. The vigil, intended to honor the victims and support their families, was marred by the disruptive actions of protesters who had traveled from outside the area.

Merseyside Police condemned the violence, stating that it was fueled by misinformation about the attack. The teenager arrested for the stabbings has no known connections to Islam, contradicting claims that contributed to the unrest. Assistant Chief Constable Alex Goss praised the officers for their bravery and reiterated that the focus should remain on supporting the grieving community.

Southport MP Patrick Hurley denounced the rioters, accusing them of exploiting the tragedy for their own agendas. “These individuals have hijacked the grief of our town for political purposes,” Hurley said, urging for solidarity and respect for the victims and their families.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and local officials also condemned the violence, emphasizing the need for calm and respect. Measures have been introduced to restore order, including increased police presence and additional powers for law enforcement.

As Southport begins to heal from the twin traumas of the attack and the subsequent riots, Prime Minister Keir Starmer and local leaders have vowed to bring those responsible for the violence to justice and support the community in its time of mourning.