[REVISION HISTORY]

Anti-immigration protests in Thetford and Suffolk

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2026-08-15 12:27 UTC → 2026-08-29 06:12 UTC · added ~~removed~~

In early August 2026, anti-immigration protests and civil disorder broke out in Thetford, Norfolk, targeting properties believed to be housing asylum seekers. Over several consecutive nights, demonstrators gathered at various locations, including Clover Way, where hundreds of protesters converged on residential addresses. The unrest involved smashing windows and fences, throwing eggs at houses, and stoning police vehicles. Protesters attempted to force entry into several properties, shouting slogans such as “We want them out”. Police intervention resulted in several officers being injured; two officers were hospitalized, including one who sustained a bite wound, while another was struck with a rock and a third was spat at. Authorities responded by utilizing Section 35 dispersal orders and additional powers, such as the ability to direct individuals to remove face coverings. Multiple arrests were made on suspicion of offenses including inciting racial hatred, public order offenses, harassment, and possession of offensive weapons. Notably, a 68-year-old resident, Brian Thompson, was charged with possession of an offensive weapon (a wooden bat). Following the unrest, a protest was planned at the former RAF Barnham Camp in Suffolk. While the Home Office has assessed the site for potential use in housing male asylum seekers, authorities noted that no asylum seekers are currently residing there. The site is presently utilized as a training facility for Norfolk and Suffolk police forces. Investigations are also underway regarding how the addresses of houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) housing asylum seekers were identified and shared during the disorder. This follows concerns that activists may be using AI, council records, and Freedom of Information requests to map dispersal accommodation locations. On August 7, 2026, a man in his 60s was arrested on suspicion of inciting racial hatred and assisting an offender in relation to these investigations.

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