The Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey, Lisa Townsend, said those involved in the violent scenes in Epsom last night should expect to face the full force of the law.
The Commissioner condemned the actions of those involved in the disorder as “shameful” after missiles including missiles including cans, rocks and flares were thrown at police officers.
Local hotels and residential properties were also targeted following false claims that these were housing people seeking asylum.
Four arrests were made in total and officers will be studying footage of the violence to identify those responsible for any further criminal offences.
“Shameful”
The Commissioner said: “The mindless scenes we witnessed last night where our police officers were targeted with missiles were nothing short of shameful.
“I am a firm believer in people’s right to peaceful protest, but sadly, some of those present in Epsom yesterday stepped way beyond that line, and the type of behaviour we witnessed will not be tolerated.
“The reality is that a number of those in Epsom last night were not local and have come into the town from elsewhere clearly with their own agenda.
“My message to those intent on stirring up trouble under the guise of legitimate protest is stay away from Epsom.
Commissioner’s warning
“If you involve yourself in disorder, the police will take robust action and I expect you to face the full force of the law.”
The Commissioner said the last week has been extremely challenging for the local community in Epsom following the reported rape in the town on April 11.
Lisa said: “I have always been a strong advocate for the safety of women and girls in all our communities in Surrey and I am well aware of the concern and fear that is felt when these type of reports are made.
“Rape and sexual assault allegations are rightly treated with the utmost seriousness by Surrey Police. They are often complex and must be handled with a great degree of sensitivity and care.
Investigation
“I have been kept updated by senior officers and I know how painstaking and extensive the enquiries have been over the last week to establish the full facts of what happened in this case.
“I fully appreciate in circumstances like this that the local community are keen to have as much information as possible, particularly when the report made is of such a concerning nature.
“I have spoken to the Chief Constable to see whether further clarity can be given around the circumstances of this case. But the reality is, our police service is often in the unenviable position of trying to balance sharing information publicly with ensuring the integrity of an investigation.
“Surrey Police have said there is no evidence this case involves asylum seekers or immigrants.
“Misinformation”
“But clearly this does not suit the narrative some want to push and we are still seeing misinformation being spread online, which I believe helped fuel the scenes we witnessed last night.
“This unhelpful speculation has made a difficult situation even worse for our communities in Epsom.
“I would like to thank them for their continued patience and understanding while this investigation is carried out.”