Council Leader Hazel Simmons MBE has praised Luton communities for standing together against violent far right thugs after the town remained peaceful last night despite fears of riots hitting the town.
After more than a week of disorder across a number of English cities, online rumours had circulated that Luton would be one of 100 towns that rioters would target next.
There was no law enforcement intelligence to suggest that the rumours were true, but it led Bedfordshire Police and the council leader to urge residents not to share disinformation online.
But after a peaceful night Cllr Simmons thanked local people while asserting that the perpetrators of scenes of unrest seen elsewhere “won’t succeed”.
“We welcome the good news this morning that Luton, Bedfordshire and by and large the rest of the country remained peaceful despite the horrendous threat of violent and Islamophobic anti-minority extreme right wing criminality,” said the council leader.
“I’m proud of how our community has once again stood up, demonstrated their deep concern and solidarity for anyone being targeted by these hateful narratives, worked proactively and constructively with the police and the council to keep our streets safe. Together we have shown that Luton will always be a no place for hate where we stand by shared values of mutual respect, welcome, and harmony.
“I would also like to extend our thanks to all Beds Police officers and staff, council employees and those of other agencies as well as and especially community leaders and volunteers, who have once again gone above and beyond to keep our community safe.
“We of course are remaining highly vigilant and continue to monitor the situation with the police and our community locally, nationally and online, as we know there are sadly those who will be bent on sowing division, undermining community cohesion, and fomenting violence.
“We are determined they won’t succeed. We ask that communities please refrain from sharing any ‘event’ details circulating on social media from unofficial sources as this may only serve to increase tension. Also to follow Bedfordshire Police website and Facebook account for official updates and not rely on other channels.
“Bedfordshire Police will not tolerate any violence or disorder. Anyone taking part in, or inciting, this kind of behaviour will be dealt with swiftly and robustly.
“If you are aware of any information about unrest in Bedfordshire, you can report through Beds Police web chat or 101. If an incident is in progress, please call 999.”
