Meadow Wells: Fireworks and bricks thrown at police during Bonfire Night riot
Six people are in cells after police officers were attacked during riots on a North Shields estate.
Just before 8pm yesterday (Thursday), emergency services were alerted to a gathering of people outside a premises in Waterville Road.
It was reported those in attendance were attacking a building with fireworks and deliberately rammed the premises with a car.
It is thought that the group wrongly believed the building was to become a House of Multi-occupancy (HMO) – however the site is planned to become a supermarket with private flats above.
When emergency services arrived, they were subsequently subject to attack.
A number of officers were injured as a result.
Five police cars and three fire engines were also damaged.
Two men aged 25 and 27, a woman aged 27, and three teenage boys have been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and are currently in police custody.
Today (Friday), Chief Superintendent Daniel Whyte, of Northumbria Police, the Area Commander for North Tyneside, has issued the following statement in response.
“The shocking scenes we witnessed last night in the Meadow Well were completely unacceptable.
"Our officers and fire fighters were met with violence, including fireworks and bricks being thrown at them and their vehicles.
"I want to recognise their commitment and professionalism and the ongoing support we have received from our partners.
“We believe the disorder relates to misinformation that the building is going to be used as a House of Multi-occupancy (HMO) – which is not accurate.
"The site is planned for use as a supermarket with flats above for private rent.
“We are sharing this information to stop speculation in the community."
He continued: “Quite simply, the disorder, violence and damage which has occurred will not be tolerated.
"Our response has been swift and robust with a full investigation ongoing to identify those responsible.
"We have already arrested six people in connection with what happened – but we haven't stopped there.
"Anyone involved should be expecting a knock on the door.
“We also recognise the overwhelming number of people in the community will condemn this type of behaviour, so would ask for their help at this time.
"Anyone who has information about what happened or footage from last night is encouraged to share this with us.
"We also know there will be concern in the community in relation to what happened and we will have an increased presence in the area to offer reassurance.
"We would encourage people to speak to our officers."
Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Lynsey McVay from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said: “Our firefighters are there to help people and keep communities safe, so it is deeply disappointing that emergency service personnel responding to the incident were met with violence and unacceptable behaviour while carrying out their duties.
“Three fire appliances were damaged whilst dealing with a life critical incident, highlighting the dangerous nature of these actions and the risks posed to those working to protect the public.
"As a result, these appliances weren't available to respond to life-critical incidents, impacting our ability to protect and support the community.
“Anti-social behaviour and criminality of this nature have no place in our communities. The actions witnessed last night put members of the public and emergency responders at risk, damaged property and disrupted the efforts of crews responding to protect the community.
“We remain committed to working alongside our partners to keep our communities safe and support efforts to identify those responsible for this unacceptable behaviour.”
North Tyneside’s Elected Mayor, Karen Clark, said: “What happened in Meadow Well last night was appalling and completely unacceptable. There is no excuse for this kind of violence and disorder, particularly when emergency services are being attacked simply for doing their jobs.
“I know how much pride the people of Meadow Well take in their community, and how upsetting and frightening these scenes will have been for residents. The actions of a minority must not be allowed to overshadow the many decent, law-abiding people who live there.
“We are working closely with Northumbria Police and our partners, and we will continue to support efforts to identify those responsible and keep our communities safe. I would encourage anyone who has information about the events of last night to come forward and help the police with their investigation.”
Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “The abhorrent scenes of anti-social behaviour and violence in Meadow Well last night are totally unacceptable and really show the harm and unwelcome tensions misinformation can cause.
“Bonfire Night should be about families and communities coming together – not violence and disorder.
“It’s a time our emergency services are already under huge pressure too and nobody should ever be attacked while doing their job.
“Residents should not have to put up with this on their own doorstep and I am angry that the actions of a small minority have caused such distress.
“I want to thank all those who responded last night. I am in regular contact with the Chief Constable and will be seeking updates as police and partners work to reassure communities and provide high visibility in the area.
“Anyone affected can also find support through my online victims directory. If you have information, please report it to the police so tough action can be taken on those responsible.”