Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, David Allen, said: “The violent disorder that has taken place across the country has been incredibly harrowing to see and any attempt to provoke criminal disorder her in Cumbria will not be tolerated.”
“Officers acted promptly to issue a dispersal order in Carlisle Centre and surrounding areas to ensure that anyone suspected of provoking community division or stoking racism would face the full force of the law.
“As a result, six men were arrested – three on suspicion of posting of content online intended to stir up Islamophobic hatred.”
Speaking after a visit to the Carlisle Mosque, Julie Minns MP, said: “We want to assure all Cumbrian residents – particularly those who are feeling the most unsafe – that the Police are here to protect you.
“The views of those trying to instil violence and criminality do not uphold the values of the UK and certainly do not speak on behalf of Cumbria. There is no place for hatred in Cumbria, and we welcome anyone who wishes to make the county their home.”
David Allen continued; “Thanks to the proactive work of the Police, no violence took place on Wednesday in Carlisle.
“Our Police are trained to deal with this type of criminal behaviour and are acting swiftly to ensure that those who are planning or actively causing public disorder face the full force of the law.
“We would like to extend our thanks to the Police Officers that were out tackling crime in Carlisle in the dispersal order area and keeping our communities safe.
“Violent behaviour is completely unacceptable and we do not want to see this type of behaviour spread into Cumbria. If you are thinking of taking part in this far-right thuggery – think again.
“The Police will stop you and you will face the consequences of your actions. These are not protests, they are criminal acts.
In a joint statement, the Commissioner and Carlisle MP said: “Carlisle is a friendly, welcoming place, and we are proud of the increasingly diverse nature of our city and the growing number of people who are making it their home.
“Our communities do not want, or deserve, to witness the appalling scenes we have seen in other towns and cities, so now is the time for us to come together and display the true values of l Carlisle.
“If you have been the victim of hatred in Cumbria, please report it to the Police on 101 or 999 – you do not deserve to live in fear.”