STORY
Police and the local MP have appealed for calm following two nights of disorder in Thetford connected with claims that properties in the town were being used to accommodate asylum seekers. A crowd gathered outside homes on Tuesday evening, with police reporting attempts to enter properties, smashed windows and damage to a fence, door and letterbox. Five men believed to be asylum seekers were removed from one address by officers for their own safety, although their immigration status has not been officially confirmed.
A largely peaceful anti-immigration demonstration was held outside Thetford Police Station on Wednesday before further disorder was reported elsewhere in the town. Norfolk Police said a male officer was struck by a rock, a female officer was bitten badly enough to break the skin and a third officer was spat at. Two men were arrested on suspicion of offences including public order violations, harassment and possession of an offensive weapon, while significant police resources were deployed to maintain public safety.
South West Norfolk MP Terry Jermy condemned what he described as mob rule and vigilantism, while acknowledging the legitimate opposition to proposals to use nearby RAF Barnham as asylum accommodation. Norfolk Police said it would continue to support peaceful protest but warned that violence, intimidation and criminal behaviour would not be tolerated. Residents have been urged to remain calm, avoid speculation on social media and allow the police investigation to continue.