Chaos in Sunderland: Police Station Set Ablaze During Protests Outside Mosque
In a night of intense clashes, protesters set a police station ablaze while confronting officers outside a mosque in Sunderland. The protest erupted on St Mark’s Road, where police formed a protective ring around the mosque amidst chants of "two-tier policing" from the crowd.
The unrest began with drivers honking their horns and vehicles passing by the gathering at Keel Square. Cheers erupted as a march commenced shortly before 7 PM. The scene was heavily monitored by a significant police presence, with some protesters draped in England flags.
An eyewitness described the chaos to Global247news News: “It was absolute chaos, protesters were throwing objects at cars and at police officers. A fire broke out at the police station while people started to run away. Groups of demonstrators have taken over the city centre."
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The witness, who was drinking in a nearby pub, recounted the tension: "The pub had to lock its doors due to rioters trying to get in and cause trouble. We could see City Hall 500 meters away and hear the sirens. It was mostly young kids between 13 and 15 causing trouble."
He added, "We saw police horses getting stuff thrown at them and people throwing petrol bombs."
Another eyewitness, who wished to remain anonymous, shared a harrowing experience: "Bricks were thrown at my car while driving down Hylton Road with my child in the back. People do mental stuff because they know they won’t get caught. If I had stopped, I think they would have dragged me out and hurt me and my child. It was terrifying."
As the city grapples with the aftermath, the incident highlights the escalating tensions and the urgent need for resolution to prevent further violence.