AN MP has urged parents to “keep young people at home” after widespread reports of an “anti-immigration demonstration” in the Southend borough today. 

Southend East and Rochford MP, Bayo Alaba, issued the warning on social media yesterday after a briefing with Essex Police on Monday night following a series of claims online that a demonstration was being planned. 

It follows a wave of “anti-immigration demonstrations” that have swept the UK since July 30 in response to the deaths of three children in Southport – with more than 400 people arrested across the country. 

Mr Alaba highlighted that he is “mindful of fake news and misinformation circulating social media” while Essex Police echoed the message but insisted the force is “ready and waiting” for anyone planning to cause trouble. 

Riot police arresting a man during a demonstration in RotherhamRiot police during a demonstration in Rotherham (Image: Danny Lawson/PA Wire) The Labour MP said: “A story has been widely shared of a number of anti immigration demonstrations due to take place simultaneously across the country on Wednesday evening.

One of the locations mentioned is in Southend.  

“In response I had a briefing from Essex Police and spoke with Home Office ministers. 

“I was assured that the Police are assessing the origins of said posts, but as a precaution are placing officers on alert to protect our city.

“There is every chance that this is fake news, but as a precaution, may I urge you all, to keep your young people at home or nearby on Wednesday evening, if possible. It’s important that if you see any large congregations of people on Wednesday afternoon/evening forming, please report to the police immediately.”

 

Patrols - Essex Police patrolling the seafront Patrols - Essex Police patrolling the seafront (Image: Essex Police)

More than 400 people have now been arrested in the wake of disorder around the country, with the number expected to continue to rise in the coming days. There were 46 charges on Monday and 18 overnight, it is understood.

Police were aware of six potential events yesterday and officers are anticipating a busy day today as they monitor reports of at least 30 possible gatherings.
Southend Labour council leader, Daniel Cowan, added that the council is on “high alert” and the CCTV is “best placed to prevent trouble”. 

He added: “I think the important thing for everyone to know is that the things we have seen across the country are not legitimate forms of protest and as the Prime Minister and Home Secretary have said, those who engage will feel the full extent of the law.”