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15 arrested in Hindu-Muslim clashes after India vs Pakistan Asia Cup match sparks violence

Leicestershire police called for calm and asked for 'dialogue' with support of local community leaders while deploying additional officers to patrol the area

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LEICESTER, UK: In a recent incident, a group of fifteen people have been arrested during a policing operation “to deter further disorder” in east Leicester. The mass arrest took place soon after the arrest of two individuals responsible for disturbances during an unplanned protest on Saturday, September 17, and Sunday, September 18 as well.

According to Independent, Leicestershire Police said: “Officers became aware of groups of young men gathering on Sunday afternoon in the North Evington area of the city. Further, they added, “Officers spoke to them and took steps, including putting in place a temporary police cordon, to minimise harm and disturbance to communities.”

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The violence and protests first broke out in the area following the Asia Cup 2022 cricket match between India and Pakistan in Dubai on August 28. Hindus and Muslims in Leicester clashed post the game, resulting in increased tensions between the communities.

Numerous smaller fracases between these two communities are said to have taken place after the commotion on Sunday, August 28 after the match. According to the reports of the Independent, Temporary Chief Constable Rob Nixon called for calm on Saturday, September 17. He said to the media, "We have had numerous reports of an outbreak of disorder in parts of the east Leicester area of the city." Further, he added, “We have got officers there, we are taking control of that situation.

“There are additional officers en route and dispersal powers and stop search powers have been authorized. Please do not get involved, we are calling for calm,” said Nixon. A police spokesman also added, “Several incidents of violence and damage have been reported to the police and are being investigated." 

The spokesperson further added, “Two arrests were made – one man on suspicion of conspiracy to commit violent disorder and one man on suspicion of possession of a bladed article. They remain in police custody. We are continuing to call for dialogue and calm with support from local community leaders. We will not tolerate violence or disorder in our city.”

Several reports of violence and damage were made to police from the region with respect to the fight between the communities. On Saturday, September 17, police officers were attacked by people throwing bottles on another night of violence. However, additional officers have been on patrol in the area in recent weeks after a number of incidents of disorder. The mass arrest of 15 people might help in tamping down on disorderly conduct.