Thetford experiences disorder during asylum seeker protests

Sporadic violence and disorder occurred across five locations in the Norfolk town of Thetford over three consecutive evenings, targeting properties where residents believed asylum seekers were being housed.

At Clover Way, one of the most significant sites of unrest, hundreds of protesters converged on a residential address. Residents reported seeing youths in hoodies throwing eggs at houses and stoning police vans. During the disturbances, two police officers were hospitalized, including one who sustained a bite wound. Arrests were made on suspicion of public order offenses, harassment, and possession of offensive weapons.

Norfolk Police reported that while the incidents were challenging, Friday passed largely peacefully. Authorities have utilized Section 35 dispersal orders to manage crowds and have implemented extra police powers for the upcoming weekend, including the ability to direct individuals to remove face coverings to prevent anti-social behavior.