UK Police Urge Leeds Residents to Avoid Sharing Conspiracy Theories After Harehills Riot

Police in Leeds are urging residents to avoid sharing conspiracy theories about a riot in Harehills last night. The disturbance, which saw a police car overturned and a double-decker bus set on fire, has prompted a significant police presence in the area.

A double-decker bus has been set alight (Picture: YappApp)

The riot began after police responded to what was initially described as a disturbance involving agency workers and children. As officers attempted to de-escalate the situation, the crowd grew increasingly agitated and violent.

Footage circulating on social media shows the chaos, including images of a police car being pushed onto its side and rocks being thrown at its windows. Some people, including children, were seen using scooters to smash the windows of another police vehicle.

Police leave the scene of a burning bus after firefighters extinguished the vehicle (Picture: Joel Goodman/LNP)

The disturbance also included multiple fires, with one incident involving a double-decker bus being set ablaze. The fire caused the bus to explode, sending surrounding crowds running away from the scene.

At least two fires were started around the Compton Road area of Harehills, Leeds (Picture: SWNS)

Police have confirmed that no serious injuries were reported during the violence. They are currently reviewing video footage to identify those responsible for the riot.

In a statement, the police warned against the spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories regarding the incident. They emphasized that the violence was instigated by a “criminal minority” intent on causing disruption.

The police spokesperson stated, “We strongly discourage residents from speculating on the causes of this disorder. The situation has been caused by a small group of individuals seeking to undermine community relations.”

Authorities have called for calm and cooperation from the public. They have emphasized that spreading incorrect information only hampers their efforts to manage the situation effectively.

Leeds councillor Salma Arif has shared a video on social media urging residents to stay safe and remain indoors while the police handle the incident. She stressed the importance of following police instructions to ensure everyone’s safety.

Police have urged the public not to get swept up in conspiracy theories about the riot (Picture: Reuters)

Inspector Nicholls also appealed to those in the crowd to go home, stating, “If you are in the crowd, please go home so we can keep everybody safe.”

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Richard Burgon, MP for Leeds East, expressed his concern about the riot and the impact of misinformation. He highlighted the community’s desire for peace and urged against spreading false information from those outside the area.

Update: message from Cllr Salma Arif & Inspector Nicholls.

Cllrs are aware of an on-going incident in Harehills.

Please avoid the area if at all possible. pic.twitter.com/6jMX56kalS

— Salma Arif (@CllrSalmaArif) July 18, 2024

The riot’s aftermath has seen a heavy police presence in Harehills as officers continue to manage the situation and work on identifying those responsible for the violence.

The community remains on edge, with many residents affected by the chaos and destruction. The police are working diligently to restore order and address the underlying issues that led to the unrest.

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Local leaders and officials are calling for unity and support from the public to overcome the current crisis. They emphasize the need for accurate information and cooperation to resolve the situation effectively.

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As investigations continue, police and community leaders are hopeful for a resolution that will help restore calm to the area and prevent further incidents.