Police arrest 67 at political protests between EDL and UAF

Police arrest 67 at political protests between right-wing EDL and anti-fascist demonstrators

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Saturday, 20, Mar 2010 07:32

By Sarah Garrod.

At least 67 people have been arrested at demonstrations in Bolton between the English Defence League (EDL) and Unite Against Fascism (UAF).

The EDL organised protest sparked a battle between the two groups, as police attempted to control the thousands who had made their way to the Victoria Square rally.

It is believed at least 1,500 UAF protestors came to counter-demonstrate against the EDL - a far-right group who claim to peacefully demonstrate against extremist Islam.

The two factions were separated by a barrier outside Bolton's town hall, with hundreds of police officers drafted in to deal with any violence. Several smoke bombs were let off by protestors and at least two people were taken to hospital with minor injuries, a police spokeswoman said.

Assistant chief constable Shewan said: "The number of arrests already made is a clear indication that this is not a peaceful protest and some demonstrators are determined to cause trouble.

"The actions of some demonstrators is resulting in injuries to others - this is not acceptable."

The UAF has been updating its stance in the riots on its Twitter page, including: "EDL brandish placards saying "Prepared for peace, READY FOR WAR" -- so much for their claims to be 'peaceful'"

"EDL chucking bottles and missiles into UAF demo. Police do nothing.

"Police have arrested UAF joint secretary Weyman Bennett. They let Nazis run riot but they smash up anti-racist demos."

While the EDL said on its website prior to the demonstration that one of the chants it would be singing today would include: (To the dads army tune) "Who do you think you are kidding Mr Jihad, If you think we're on the run/ We are the boys who will stop your little game, We are the boys who will make you think again/ So who do you think you are kidding Mr Jihad, If you think old England's done".