Posted by English protestors use Irish rally tactic at ‘Kill the Bill’ demo
English protestors used a similar tactic, which had recently employed at an Irish rally, during a ‘Kill the Bill’ demonstration on Friday night.
The ‘Kill the Bill’ protest took place in Bristol and saw clashes between police and protestors, which led to 10 arrests.
During the course of the violence at the rally, fireworks were shot at police, much like an incident which happened during the anti-lockdown rally in Dublin in February.
Reports in the UK also suggest that bricks, glass bottles and other objects at the dozens of officers who attended the protests.
The protestors are also said to have shone laser pointers into faces of officers who were behind riot shields.
Demonstrators took to the streets to oppose the new Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill which was introduced this week.
The bill seeks to give police extended powers when responding to protests, but those protesting against the bill say that it goes too far.
It is estimated that in excess of 1,000 protestors attended the demonstration andLocal reports suggest that the majority of the gathering engaged in peaceful protest, despite flare ups among sections of the crowd.
Officers responding from Avon and Somerset Police were also accused of being heavy handed in their approach, after journalists present reported that they had been targeted by officers.
Pictures and videos also showed moments in which police were seen striking members of the crowd who were sat in the street.
Superintendent Mark Runacres from the force said in a statement after the protests: ‘The majority of people acted peacefully however there was a minority who once again showed hostility to officers.
‘Items, including glass bottles and bricks were thrown at officers, fireworks were launched at our mounted section while one of our horses was also covered with paint. This violent conduct is not acceptable.
‘Officers repeatedly encouraged people to disperse but once the atmosphere changed and people became physical it was necessary to take action.
‘Ten people were arrested for offences including violent disorder, assaulting an emergency worker and possession of Class A drugs.
‘Three of those arrested were also detained in connection with the violent disorder which took place in Bristol on Sunday.
‘All the officers policing the incident are specially trained and accredited in public order and showed exceptional patience in the face of a significant disorder.
‘At times reasonable force had to be used – this is not something we ever want to do but we have a duty to uphold the law, prevent crime, and protect people and property.’
