A protest outside The Bell hotel in Epping, Essex, which houses asylum seekers, turned violent on Thursday night, leading to the arrest of a 33-year-old man from Loughton. The man has been charged with violent disorder and criminal damage and is set to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court on Monday. This arrest marks the third in connection with the protests, which have seen escalating tensions in the local community.

Protest Escalation and Arrests

What began as a peaceful protest quickly devolved into chaos, resulting in injuries to eight police officers and damage to police vehicles. Riot police were deployed as demonstrators, some masked, clashed with a smaller group of anti-racism activists. The situation intensified when protestors began pelting police and counter-demonstrators with plastic bottles, eggs, and flour.

Dean Walters, 65, from Harlow, has also been charged with affray following a separate protest on July 13. Another individual was arrested for breaching a dispersal order but has since been released on conditional bail.

Underlying Tensions

The protests have been fueled by recent charges against Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old Ethiopian asylum seeker accused of three counts of sexual assault. Kebatu, who denies the charges, is currently in custody awaiting trial. The case has heightened local tensions, prompting a series of demonstrations outside the hotel.

Police Response and Community Impact

Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow condemned the violence, stating, "The events in Epping on Thursday were shocking and have no place in our neighbourhoods." He emphasized the police's role in facilitating peaceful protests while maintaining impartiality. Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hooper urged the public to refrain from attending future protests, which have been discussed on social media.