Protesters got into a fight with the police in the English city of Bristol on Sunday evening. Thousands of protesters protested a bill that would give police more powers in demonstrations that are not violent. Several officers were injured, two of them sustained serious injuries and were taken to hospital.
Two police cars were also set on fire during the demonstration. Officers said they were being verbally abused and pelted with fireworks and other items.
According to the BBC, many protesters wore masks and carried banners with texts like “say no to the British police state” and “freedom to demonstrate is fundamental to a democracy”. BBC footage shows rioters breaking windows and firing fireworks into the crowd.
Home Secretary Priti Patel called the violence in Bristol “unacceptable”. A police spokesperson said the demonstration started peacefully, but later got out of hand at the hands of a small group.
Major events have been banned in Britain due to corona measures, and police have urged people not to take to the streets. During an anti-lockdown rally in London on Saturday, thousands of people were on the move. Several police officers were injured and at least 36 protesters were arrested.
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