Fifteen arrests after scenes of violence outside the Knowsley Hotel
Police monitored a peaceful protest and counter-protest at the Suites Hotel on Ribblers Lane around 6.30pm.
The hotel was used as a refuge for asylum seekers.
Merseyside Police say a number of people who were not part of the original protest group emerged a short time later and “it is clear they were only interested in causing trouble through violence and intimidation, without thinking about it or themselves.” to take care of it. for other members of the public or our officials”.
Rockets and firecrackers were thrown at officers throughout the evening, and a police van was attacked by perpetrators, who used hammers before setting it on fire.
A police officer and two passers-by were slightly injured.
The crowds dispersed and the streets reopened in the early hours of the morning (Saturday 11 February).
A total of 13 men and two women between the ages of 13 and 54 were arrested on suspicion of violent crimes and taken to police stations across the street
Continue reading Police van set on fire during riots near hotel in Knowsley
Police continue to gather CCTV, drone and other evidence to identify all those involved and bring them to justice.
Chief Constable Serena Kennedy said: “A number of people who showed up at the Suites Hotel last night intended to use a planned protest to carry out violent and despicable behavior.
“They showed up armed with hammers and firecrackers to cause as much trouble as possible and their actions could have resulted in members of the public and police officers being seriously injured or worse.
“Indeed, one of my officers was injured on duty, as were a number of members of the public, and it was only by luck that no one was injured more seriously or worse.
“A police car was also taken out of service because of arson. All those arrested are now being questioned and we will continue to collect all evidence as part of that investigation and our officers continue to examine CCTV footage in a bid to identify all others involved.
“We understand that prior to this incident last night, rumors and misinformation were circulating on social media following an incident earlier in the week.
“Aware of the risks posed by rumors and speculation, I would like to reassure the public that we are aware of an incident that occurred earlier in the week and an investigation is ongoing.
“Detectives are investigating reports of an incident that took place in Kirkby on Monday February 6 when a man made inappropriate advances towards a young girl.
“This was reported to police by members of the public, but no victim was initially identified.
“Following an investigation, a man in his 20s was arrested on Thursday 9 February in another part of the country on suspicion of a public order offence. A file was presented to the CPS and, on their advice, he was released without further action.
“I want to be absolutely clear that this is an ongoing investigation and we urge anyone who witnessed this incident or has any information that could help us bring the perpetrator to justice to come forward.
“Social media speculation, misinformation and rumors can actually damage the results of investigations and create unnecessary fear and consistent behavior, so I would continue to ask people to be aware of the damage such actions can cause.
“We understand the concern that an incident can cause, but I can assure you that the investigation is ongoing and we are doing everything we can to bring the perpetrator to justice.
“Violence is not the way to resolve this and we know that those involved in last night’s violent activities used this as an excuse to commit violence and intimidate the public that has a right to know her.” Live in peace and live without fear.
“There is no excuse for the violence that took place last night and we will arrest anyone who does not follow this advice.
“Additional officers will be conducting high-visibility policing in the area to reassure residents and prevent a repeat of this behavior, and the local police team is always available to listen and respond to community concerns.” 
“Merseyside Police and our partners will not tolerate groups of people targeting this site and causing fear and suffering to residents and the local community, and violence against police officers doing their duty.
“Share any information via @MerPolCC on Twitter or ‘Merseyside Police Contact Center’ on Facebook or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
https://www.sthelensstar.co.uk/news/23315252.fifteen-arrests-violent-scenes-outside-knowsley-hotel/?ref=rss Fifteen arrests after scenes of violence outside the Knowsley Hotel
