Mob in UK attacks mosque, clashes with police over stabbing of 3 kids

Violence erupted in Southport, England, as far-right protesters, believed to be affiliated with the English Defence League, clashed with police and attacked a mosque. The clashes took place after a vigil for three young girls -- six-year-old Bebe King, seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe and nine-year-old Alice Dasilva Aguiar -- who were killed in a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop at the Hart Space studio in Hart Street on Monday.

The protest was fuelled by social media rumours suggesting an Islamist link to Monday's stabbings. However, authorities have stated that the 17-year-old suspect, who was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder, has no known links to Islam, reported the BBC.

The disturbance began on Tuesday evening after a peaceful vigil was held in the town centre where more than 1,000 people gathered to pay tribute to the victims and express solidarity with those affected.

MOSQUE IN SOUTHPORT ATTACKED BY FAR-RIGHT MOB

However, a group of protesters gathered near a mosque after the rumours throughout the day, leading to a violent confrontation with police.

As the disorder escalated, the group attacked the front of the mosque by throwing bricks, bottles, fireworks, and rocks. Officers donned protective gear and used riot shields to defend themselves as wheelie bins and other objects were hurled at them. Additionally, a police vehicle was set on fire, reported the BBC.

Thirty-nine Merseyside Police officers were injured, with 27 taken to hospital. Eight officers suffered serious injuries, including fractures, lacerations, and a suspected broken nose. Three police dogs were also injured, reported the Guardian.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper described the rioting as "violent attacks from thugs on the streets", while Southport MP Patrick Hurley condemned the actions of "thugs who had got the train in" and were using the deaths of the children "for their own political purposes", reported BBC.

Assistant Chief Constable Alex Goss described the violence as "sickening" and appealed for anyone with information or video footage to come forward to help identify those responsible.

The Home Secretary warned about disinformation linked to the attack, and the Muslim Council of Britain condemned the "shocking scenes of far-right rioters running amok outside a mosque" as an Islamophobic backlash.

KEIR STARMER PROMISES FULL FORCE OF LAW AGAINST RIOTERS

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said those who rioted would "feel the full force of the law" and had "hijacked the vigil for the victims with violence and thuggery".

He added that they had "insulted the community as it grieves".

The Home Secretary described the attacks on police officers as "appalling" and "a total disgrace".

In response to the violence, a 24-hour Section 60 Order was put in place, giving police extra stop and search powers.

A Section 34 Order was also introduced, allowing police to direct people engaging in antisocial behaviour away from the area.

Extra officers will remain in the area to provide a visible presence and reassure communities.

The violence has left the community of Southport reeling, with residents expressing fear for their safety as stones flew past and police officers rushed to put on riot gear.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with the Muslim Council of Britain calling for unity against "the cynical forces of hatred and division", reported The Guardian.