News / Kill the Bill riot
Police say Sunday’s rioters ‘can expect a knock at your door’
More than one hundred police officers and civilian staff are now working on investigating the violent events in Bristol on Sunday evening.
Twenty-one officers were injured in the riot, which began after a few hundred people gathered outside Bridewell Police Station following the conclusion of a ‘Kill the Bill’ protest.
Protesters have said that they were provoked, but Avon & Somerset Police say that their officers were attacked and threatened.
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What is not in doubt is that both police officers and protesters were injured, police vehicles including a community police station were set on fire, and windows at the police station smashed.
As of Monday evening, eight arrests have been made: six for violent disorder and two for possession of an offensive weapon.
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Detective chief superintendent Carolyn Belafonte said the investigation could result in the release of the largest number of images for wanted suspects in the force’s history.
She said: “What happened on the streets of Bristol on Sunday was nothing short of disgraceful and it’s provoked widespread condemnation over the past 24 hours.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and kindness that we’ve received from the public, as well as from organisations and agencies across the city. It’s greatly appreciated and means a lot to all the officers and staff who work day in, day out to keep the public safe.
Belafonte added: “A full forensic examination of the scene has been carried out today (Monday) and this has resulted in forensic evidence being obtained, including fingerprints, which will also be used to help identify suspects.
“This will be a lengthy investigation but we’re wholly committed to tracking down all those who engaged in the wanton disorder yesterday (Sunday).
“To those who took part in this spree of offending, you can expect a knock at your door in the days or weeks to come. It may come sooner than you think.”
Watch Bristol24/7’s video of the riot on YouTube:
Main photo: Martin Booth
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