Southport Stabbings Update: MP Condemns Riots Disrespecting Grieving Town
Rioters who brought violence to Southport during a vigil for three girls killed in a knife rampage have been accused by an MP of ‘disrespecting’ the victims’ families and the town. Patrick Hurley, the Labour representative for Southport, said ‘beered-up thugs’ must face the full force of the law as 39 police officers were injured during disorder on Merseyside. Mr. Hurley today accused violent perpetrators of ‘utterly disrespecting’ the families of the dead and injured children at a time when the community grieves the deaths of Bebe King, six, Elsie Stancombe, seven, and nine-year-old Alice Aguiar.
Detectives have been granted more time to question the 17-year-old arrested on suspicion of the Southport knife attacks. The teenager, who has not been named because of his age, remains in custody having been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. Three girls – Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, – were fatally stabbed in Southport on Monday. Eight other youngsters suffered knife wounds and five are in a critical condition, alongside two adults who were also critically injured.
The peaceful vigil held for the three young girls killed in the Southport rampage on Monday descended into violence as a riot broke out on the streets of Southport. Thousands of heartbroken mourners gathered for the vigil to remember the three young girls. However, large crowds believed to be supporters of the English Defence League started throwing items towards a local mosque on St Luke’s Road in Southport, leading to criminal behavior and violence. Merseyside Police had to send extra patrols to deal with the violence, and 22 officers were injured following the disorder.
Amid the shocking scenes of violence on the streets of Southport, rioters appeared to charge at police with a bin engulfed by flames. More than 50 police officers were injured during the policing operation. The rioters targeted a local mosque, and volunteers have since helped repair the damage caused during the riot. The Home Secretary has condemned the actions of those responsible for the violence, while a local landscaper offered free help to repair damaged walls in the community.
The mother of one of the girls stabbed to death in the Southport knife rampage called for an end to the violence following the riots that left 39 police officers injured. Southport MP, Patrick Hurley, also condemned the ‘beered-up thugs’ responsible for the violence, stating that they disrespected the families of the victims and the town. Police believe that members of the English Defence League were involved in the riots, according to the force’s Police and Crime Commissioner.
In conclusion, the violent riots that erupted in Southport have shocked the community and left many injured. The actions of the rioters have been condemned by local authorities and residents who have come together to support one another during this difficult time. It is essential for those responsible for the violence to be held accountable and face the consequences of their actions to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
