Police have this morning issued a major update after the horrifying instances of violent unrest which engulfed Leeds tonight.
In a detailed statement released well past 1am, West Yorkshire Police said that the chaos is believed to have been “instigated by a criminal minority”. The Harehills area of Leeds was engulfed in chaos late on Thursday, with a bus being torched and gutted by flames, a police car overturned and rocks pelted at officers.
The police force said: “Police are continuing to attend to a serious disorder incident in the Harehills area this evening. A large number of public order officers have been deployed to the location in what remains an ongoing incident. We wish to reassure residents we are responding to the disorder incidents which have taken place, and that appropriate specialist public order resources are attending.
“Officers are also reviewing footage which has circulated on social media showing offending. All criminal offences, including damage to vehicles from fire, will be fully investigated by detectives from Leeds CID and the force’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team.
“We want to make it very clear that the full weight of the law will be brought against those responsible. Police can also confirm that no-one has so far been reported to have been hurt in the disorder and police are treating the matter as a serious public order incident. Residents who have perhaps gathered to observe the incidents are asked to keep away from the disorder while officers manage the incident.
“We would strongly discourage residents from speculating on the cause of this disorder which we believe has been instigated by a criminal minority intent on disrupting community relations. Officers are aware of incorrect information circulating on social media suggesting persons potentially responsible.”
“Members of the public who have reported incidents so far are thanked for their reports and we want to encourage people to contact us with information and footage of offenders. A specialised website will be set up to allow these reports to be made will be set up and further details regarding this on this will follow. Finally, we wish to thank members of communities who are working to reassure residents and calm the situation.”
This is a developing news story – please refresh the page for updates.
