UK police brace for potential weekend violence after week of far-right unrest

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) — British police are preparing for the possibility of renewed violent far-right protests this weekend, with 6,000 riot officers to be deployed.

Gavin Stephens, head of the country's National Police Chiefs’ Council, said that despite a recent lull after a week of far-right riots, authorities were not letting their guard down.

"While the previous two nights have been a welcome break from the appalling scenes of the last week, and may have reached a turning point, we are by no means complacent," Stephens said.

He added that arrests related to the disorder could continue for months as investigations progress.

So far, around 150 individuals have been charged, with many more expected to face legal action.

Authorities have arrested 595 people for a variety of alleged offenses, including violent disorder, theft, and antisocial behavior. Authorities have also signaled their intent to pursue those responsible for spreading online hate, which is believed to have fueled the violence.

The Ministry of Justice has reported that 154 people have appeared in court in connection with the riots.

Of those, 118 have been remanded in custody, and 56 individuals have either been sentenced or are awaiting sentencing.