Police detained several anti-migrant protesters in Thetford, Norfolk, following a series of confrontations targeting homes believed to accommodate asylum seekers. The disturbances, which began on Tuesday, continued through Wednesday and prompted an increased police presence in the market town aimed at curbing further unrest.

On Tuesday evening, officers responded to reports of a group attempting to forcibly enter residences, resulting in property damage including smashed windows and a broken fence panel. Police also intervened at multiple addresses on St John’s Way, Bracken Road, and Elm Road, where residents were reportedly threatened and at least one individual had their mobile phone taken.

The situation escalated on Wednesday night when police officers were assaulted during ongoing disorder. One officer was reportedly bitten, while another was struck by a rock. In connection with the disturbances, a 68-year-old man was charged with possession of a wooden bat, and a man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of public order offences and harassment.

The properties at the centre of the unrest are in proximity to a former Royal Air Force base in Barnham, Suffolk, located about three miles south of Thetford. The Home Office has designated this site to house up to 1,250 lone male asylum seekers, a plan that has sparked protests in both communities since its announcement in June. Several of the targeted residences had been acquired by a single landlord over the past nine months, with one house recently converted into a shared accommodation for six individuals.

Scott Hussey, a Reform UK councillor, stated that the occupants of at least one home are migrants. He described the property’s location on a housing estate popular with young families and noted concerns from neighbours, including an elderly woman who has reported feeling unsafe since the migrants moved in.

Last night, law enforcement officers in riot gear were deployed to residential streets as crowds gathered near addresses associated with migrant residents. Riot vans and squad cars later arrived, and police issued dispersal orders around 6:30 p.m. Residents expressed mixed feelings about the situation. Lauren Snow, a local mother, said she felt unsafe due to the presence of asylum seekers nearby but condemned the violence during protests. “Protesting’s one thing, but it’s not fair on the police,” she said.

Norfolk Constabulary described the initial protests outside Thetford police station on Wednesday as “largely peaceful” before the escalation to violent activity. An encampment of demonstrators has been established near the former RAF base, featuring placards with slogans opposing the Home Office’s plans.

Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK, argued that the disorder reflected local frustrations over the influx of migrants, emphasizing that communities should be allowed to voice concerns without being accused of bigotry. Nevertheless, he condemned the violent actions witnessed during the protests.

Labour MP for South West Norfolk, Terry Jermy, also spoke out against the violence, calling it “deeply concerning.” He stressed that regardless of immigration or legal status, the individuals involved must be treated with dignity and afforded the rights expected within the United Kingdom.