EASTBOURNE MP Josh Babarinde has shown his support for local communities, calling for peace and unity at a time when the country is gripped by mass riots and division.
Public disorder and violence has taken place in major cities across the UK, including Belfast, London, Birmingham, Bolton, Liverpool, Plymouth and Stoke-on-Trent. Thus far, about 400 people have been arrested.
The riots came after a knife attack in Southport on July 29, which left three girls dead.
There are reports of far-right protests set to take place today (August 7) in Brighton and Hastings, and reportedly in Eastbourne too. Some shops have closed today, while some are reportedly closing early.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer held an COBRA meeting regarding reports of staged protests taking place today across the country.
Sussex Police issued a statement yesterday saying any criminal activity and public disorder will be dealt with robustly and swiftly. Police added that residents need to remain vigilant, and to contact police immediately via 101, or by calling 999 in an emergency, quoting Operation Skylark.
Mr Babarinde visited Eastbourne Mosque yesterday (August 6) and met Neighbouring Policing Officers to reassure the community that any criminal activity will not be tolerated.
Mr Babarinde said: “This evening, I joined members of Eastbourne Mosque after their prayers to show solidarity against the wholly unacceptable hate that has escalated toward Muslims, people of colour and other minorities across our country, and for them to know that their MP has their back.
“Everyone has the right to feel safe in their home, their community and their place of worship. End of.
“I also met with dedicated Neighbourhood Policing Officers Fareed Kamar and Jason Kemp, who are clear that any hateful criminal activity, whether in Eastbourne or elsewhere, will face the full force of the law and will not be tolerated.
“This echoes the call I had with District Commander Di Lewis, who is working with her team of committed officers to combat hate crime.
“Thank you Fareed, Jason and Sussex Police more widely for all their work to prevent and intercept hate crime at a particularly sensitive time, and for engaging with our community on the ground to keep us all safe.
“Eastbourne says NO to hate crime and YES to unity and peace.”
