Epping, a usually quiet Essex town, has faced unrest following protests over the housing of asylum seekers at the Bell Hotel, NaijNaira can report.
According to BBC News, tensions have escalated as police officers sustained injuries and multiple arrests were made over recent days in the area surrounding the hotel.
Geoff Morris, a local café owner, voiced concern over the nature of the demonstrations. “It’s more against the refugees than anything else, which is a shame,” he said, describing the town as “upmarket and chilled,” and the violence as “mindless.”
Barbara Frost, who joined the protests with her husband, said she understood the frustration but didn’t support aggressive actions. “I don’t condone violence, but enough’s enough,” she remarked. Steve Frost added, “Some came in wearing masks ready to cause trouble.”
Retired magistrate Pauline Ashton also criticized the violence. “It’s over the top. I blame outside anti-immigrant activists,” she said, noting locals’ unease with the influx of asylum seekers.
Finance manager Kerry Gilroy described the atmosphere as emotionally charged. “There’s so much division and hatred—it’s uncomfortable,” she said, attributing broader frustrations to government decisions and economic pressure.
Essex Police confirmed that managing the unrest has cost £100,000 so far. Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow stated, “This is not protest, it’s hooliganism. Those involved will be held accountable.”
Article updated 3 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
