Violence erupts in Southport as protesters clash with police following tragic knife attack

Violence erupted between protesters and police outside a Southport mosque following the tragic stabbing of three young girls.

Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, were all tragically killed in a knife attack in Southport, Merseyside, on Monday. In addition to the fatalities, eight other children sustained stab wounds, with five currently in critical condition. Two adults were also critically injured in the incident, according to police reports.

On Tuesday evening, hundreds gathered for a vigil outside Southport's Atkinson arts venue, many visibly upset as they laid flowers and cards in memory of the young victims. The peaceful vigil was followed by a protest outside a local mosque, where demonstrators chanting far-right slogans clashed with police on St Luke's Road.

• Read more: Police name three young victims as families release heartbreaking statements
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Merseyside Police reported that "a large group of people believed to be supporters of the English Defence League" began hurling items towards the mosque around 7.45pm.

Police officers donned helmets and riot gear as stones and bottles were thrown at them, resulting in damage to police vehicles and some being set alight.

An officer suffered a suspected broken nose amidst the chaos outside the mosque, as projectiles continued to be launched at the police.

A 17 year old boy, who cannot be named due to legal reasons, is currently in custody, facing charges of murder and attempted murder in relation to the incident at the Hart Street dance studio.

Assistant Chief Constable Alex Goss remarked: "It is sickening to see this happening within a community that has been devastated by the tragic loss of three young lives."

He further noted, "In the last 24 hours, we have seen overwhelming support and sympathy from the community and wider Merseyside communities for the families who are currently trying to deal with their loss and care for victims injured during the major incident."

Reflecting on the challenges faced by emergency services, he said, "Yesterday, our officers and other members of the emergency services were faced with one of the most difficult situations they will ever face. Tonight, they find themselves being attacked as they endeavour to prevent disorder."

ACC Goss also pointed out, "The actions in Southport tonight will involve many people who do not live in the Merseyside area or care about the people of Merseyside."

Addressing the spread of misinformation, he stated, "There has been much speculation and hypothesis around the status of a 17-year-old male who is currently in police custody and some individuals are using this to bring violence and disorder to our streets."

He made it clear by saying, "We have already said that the person arrested was born in the UK and speculation helps nobody at this time."

Concluding his statement, ACC Goss affirmed, "Our officers should not have to face this, but we will be there tonight to ensure the safety of the local community who have suffered enough, and will arrest those involved in criminal behaviour."