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A peaceful anti-immigration demonstration descended into mob violence on Wednesday night, leaving a female police officer with serious bite injuries and a 68-year-old man facing criminal charges, as two consecutive nights of disorder have shaken this historic market town.
The trouble erupted shortly after 9:30 PM when officers responded to reports that a group was attempting to force entry into a property on Clover Way. What began as a response to a potential break-in quickly spiralled into violence directed squarely at those sent to protect the community. A female officer sustained significant injuries after being bitten with such force that her skin was broken, while a male colleague was struck on the head with a rock and a third officer was spat at during the confrontation.
Norfolk Police have confirmed that earlier in the evening, a large crowd had gathered outside Thetford Police Station for what was described as a "largely peaceful" anti-immigration protest. However, as darkness fell, the atmosphere turned hostile, with a breakaway group moving through the residential streets of Clover Way, allegedly attempting to gain access to homes believed by some to be housing asylum seekers.
The violence marked the second consecutive night of unrest. On Tuesday, crowds of up to 100 people stormed three separate properties across St John's Way, Bracken Road, and Elm Road. Windows were left shattered, fences were destroyed, and in one disturbing incident, a resident was forcibly removed from their home before having their mobile phone stolen. Police have confirmed that both nights of disorder are linked to growing tensions surrounding the Home Office's plans to house asylum seekers in the area.
In a swift response, Norfolk Police have made several arrests. Brian Thompson, 68, of Fairfields, Thetford, has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon, namely a wooden bat. He has been released on bail and is due to appear before Norwich Magistrates' Court on August 25.
A second man, aged in his 40s, was arrested on Wednesday night on suspicion of public order offences, harassment, and possession of an offensive weapon. He remains in custody as detectives continue their enquiries. A third man, aged in his 30s, was arrested over Tuesday's incidents on suspicion of a public order offence. He has since been released but has been issued with a conditional caution.
The violence has provoked strong condemnation from local leaders. South West Norfolk MP Terry Jermy, who has previously been chased through the town centre by a mob, told a Daily Dazzling Dawn journalist that the behaviour was simply unacceptable.
"Whatever our own individual views on immigration, mob rule and vigilantism is not acceptable," Mr Jermy said. "To be British is to respect the dignity of every individual, regardless of their background, race or religion. Those responsible must face the full force of the law."
Assistant Chief Constable Julie Dean, who is overseeing the police response, echoed the MP's words, stating: "We will always facilitate and support the right to peaceful protest. However, no matter how strongly those views are held, there is no place for violence, intimidation or criminal behaviour. We will not stand by and allow this to take place, whether it is directed towards members of the public, local residents, or our officers carrying out their duties."
The unrest did not emerge in a vacuum. Tensions have been building for weeks following the Government's announcement that RAF Barnham, a former military site just three miles from Thetford, would be used to accommodate up to 1,250 male asylum seekers. Since June, protests have grown in size and intensity, culminating in the recent violent episodes that have left the community deeply divided.
With Mr Thompson due in court on August 25 and a second man still in custody, the criminal justice process is now underway. Norfolk Police have confirmed that they will maintain a visible presence in the town to reassure residents and prevent further disorder. Community leaders are calling for calm and dialogue, urging residents to express their concerns through lawful and democratic channels rather than through violence and intimidation.
A Home Office spokesperson has yet to comment on whether the RAF Barnham plans will be reviewed in light of the unrest. However, local authorities are expected to hold urgent meetings in the coming days to address community concerns and restore trust.
