Hampshire Police have released images as part of the investigation into an incident which occurred at Potters International Hotel in Aldershot on Wednesday, July 31.
At around 6.45pm, 200 people gathered to protest and a large police presence was dispatched to disperse the group on scene. One of the officers suffered a minor injury as a result of the disruption.
Demonstrators held posters and placards with messages displaying “no apartments for illegals", "deport them, don't support them” and “we want our apartments back”.
Police revealed the majority of the 200 people involved in the protest gathered peacefully. A small minority got involved in criminal activity and subjected people to racial abuse.
Investigations are underway today to take action against those who sparked the disruption. No arrests have been made at time of writing.
To help with their investigation, police have released photos of seven men they are keen to identify. They urge anyone with information or who can identify the men to contact police on 101, quoting the number 44240326041.
Alternatively, make a report via: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/
Police have not directly linked the disruption in Aldershot to the events that took place in Southport. In a televised speech following the violent incidents in Southport, Hartlepool and Aldershot.
“A response both to the immediate challenge. Which is clearly driven by far-right hatred. But also - all violent disorder that flares up.
“Whatever the apparent cause or motivation – we make no distinction Crime is crime. And so - to that end, I can announce today, that following this meeting we will establish a national capability, across the police force, To tackle violent disorder. “
Assistant Chief Constable Paul Bartolomeo said: “It is totally unacceptable to turn that lawful right into criminal acts including incidents of criminal damage, racial abuse and intimidation. This will not be tolerated in Hampshire and Isle of Wight.
“Our specialist teams are working hard to identify anyone who has committed a criminal offence and we will take swift and robust action against those people.
“As ever, we continue to speak to our communities across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to ensure we have our teams where they need to be and we are constantly reviewing our patrol plans to reassure residents.
“Everyone has the right to free speech and peaceful protest. However, officers will take a robust stance against those whose behaviour falls below the standard we expect and who choose to act outside of the law.”