A Leeds local has told GB News he “doesn’t feel safe” in Harehills after scenes of violent disorder in the Leeds suburb.
The West Yorkshire force said rioting broke out in Harehills on Thursday as officers responded to reports of social workers experiencing hostility while dealing with a child protection issue.
“Several” people have been arrested and “further arrests will be made in the coming days”, West Yorkshire Police said in a new statement.
Speaking on GB News, local resident Graham Newby spoke out on his concern for what’s next.
Graham Newby says Harehills has become a 'no-go zone'
GB NEWS / PA
“I looked on social media and I saw a bus on fire, a police car turned on its side, and not a lot of police here”, he said.
“It breaks my heart. I’m 59-years of age and to see my beloved Harehills like this has been heartbreaking.
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“It has become a no-go zone. It is horrible. It is horrendous. I remember in the ’70s and ‘80s I used to come down here and go to the butchers, the meeting point, but now it’s horrible.
“It’s a minority. I want peace, I want love, I want everyone to live together in harmony. The police have got to get a hold on it.
“We need to come together, all the different communities and stick together and talk, there was no need for this.
“It’s a tragedy what happened.”
Graham Newby spoke to Anna Riley on GB News
GB NEWS
Assistant Chief Constable Pat Twiggs said: “Responding officers were attacked and helped Children’s Social Care staff withdraw to a place of safety.
“As the disorder escalated, damage was caused to vehicles and several fires set.
“We continually assessed the situation and took the decision to deploy specialist public order officers who then came under a barrage of bricks and missiles from a large group.”
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said police have her full backing in “taking the strongest possible action” against rioters.
Gang of thugs overturn police car in Leeds as riots break out on streetTikTok/SnapchatShe said in a statement: “The scenes of criminality and disorder in Leeds last night were disgraceful, including attacks on police vehicles and public transport, and will have been very distressing for local residents.
“Those responsible must face the full force of the law and West Yorkshire Police have my support in pursuing the perpetrators and taking the strongest possible action against them.”
West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin condemned the “violent and thoughtless actions”, adding that “such criminal behaviour will not be tolerated”.
She said in a statement: “I am absolutely appalled by the violent and thoughtless actions witnessed in Harehills last night.”
