UK News

Police issue statement after shocking scenes of riots in Leeds

A bus was set on fire and police car overturned.

Daisy Jackson - 19th July 2024

Police have assured the public that ‘the full weight of the law’ will be brought against those taking part in a large-scale disturbance in Harehills last night.

Footage flooding social media showed huge riots breaking out in the Leeds neighbourhood, including a double-decker bus being deliberately set on fire.

A police car was also overturned in the disturbance.

A local councillor in Leeds was even seen trying to break up the riots, pulling materials out of people’s hands, The Hoot reports.

Residents were urged to stay safe indoors during the incident last night, which raged on for several hours.

Thankfully, West Yorkshire Police have confirmed that no one has reported to have been injured in the unrest.

Officers are now reviewing the footage that was widely circulating on social media, and appealing for any other information or footage to be shared.

A statement from the police said: “We want to make it very clear that the full weight of the law will be brought against those responsible.”

What the hell is going off in Harehills, Leeds? 🤯😳 pic.twitter.com/QSKwvyePec
— Jamie Owen (@j98str) July 18, 2024

MP Yvette Cooper said: “I am appalled at the shocking scenes and attacks on police vehicles & public transport in Leeds tonight. Disorder of this nature has no place in our society.

“My thanks go to West Yorkshire police for their response. I am being kept regularly updated.”

Green Party councillor Mothin Ali was seen in Harehills trying to stop the rioters, even pulling materials out of their hands that people were trying to add to the fires.

IMPORTANT

There are some very prominent accounts claiming Leeds Green councillor Mothin Ali was participating or inciting people to riot in Leeds.

This is FAKE NEWS.

He spent hours trying to STOP people burning and damaging property.

Please share. #riots pic.twitter.com/ygv8TPcwHH
— Alex Tiffin (@RespectIsVital) July 18, 2024

In a statement last night, West Yorkshire Police said: “We wish to reassure residents we are responding to the disorder incidents which have taken place, and that appropriate specialist public order resources are attending.

“Officers are also reviewing footage which has circulated on social media showing offending.

“All criminal offences, including damage to vehicles from fire, will be fully investigated by detectives from Leeds CID and the force’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team.

“We want to make it very clear that the full weight of the law will be brought against those responsible.

“Police can also confirm that no-one has so far been reported to have been hurt in the disorder and police are treating the matter as a serious public order incident.

“Residents who have perhaps gathered to observe the incidents are asked to keep away from the disorder while officers manage the incident.

“We would strongly discourage residents from speculating on the cause of this disorder which we believe has been instigated by a criminal minority intent on disrupting community relations. Officers are aware of incorrect information circulating on social media suggesting persons potentially responsible.

“Members of the public who have reported incidents so far are thanked for their reports and we want to encourage people to contact us with information and footage of offenders. A specialised website will be set up to allow these reports to be made will be set up and further details regarding this on this will follow.

“Finally, we wish to thank members of communities who are working to reassure residents and calm the situation.”

Featured image: X, @Dylan_laun