Cops attacked as protest turns violent in Bristol

The protesters set afire a police vehicle. Pic/ASPoliceHorses/Twitter

Twenty policemen were injured after a rally in Bristol in southwest England against a government bill that would increase police powers to deal with protests turned violent on Sunday. During the "Kill the Bill" rally, a police station was also attacked and at least two police vehicles were set on fire.

UK Home Secretary Priti Patel described the events as "unacceptable". "Thuggery and disorder by a minority will never be tolerated. Our police officers put themselves in harm's way to protect us all," the minister said. The local Avon and Somerset Police said the peaceful protest was turned into a violent disorder by a small minority of demonstrators.

"What started out as a peaceful protest has been turned by a small minority into a violent disorder. These scenes are absolutely disgraceful and they will be widely condemned by people across the city. There can never be any excuse for wanton disorder," Chief Superintendent Will White said.

"Officers have been subjected to considerable levels of abuse and violence. One suffered a broken arm and another suffered broken ribs. Both have been taken to the hospital. These are men and women out there with the intention of serving and protecting the public, they should never be subjected to assaults in this way," he said.

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