06/08/2024 - Reassurance for residents following violent disorder in cities across the country

They said: “Along with everyone concerned across our community, we have been watching the deplorable violent events in a number cities over the weekend targeting minority communities and the Police with revulsion and grave concern.

"We want to reassure all people in Luton that Bedfordshire Police continues to monitor any potential local threats very carefully. We also continue to ensure that all community safety partners are fully prepared to respond and protect the public and community if any disorder should occur in the town.

"It is critical that everyone understands that the perpetrators of this violent and hateful disorder are actively using high levels of disinformation to magnify and spread fear and confusion, and divert already stretched resources from where they are actually needed to protect the public.

"For this reason, we would ask everyone to ensure that any information that they receive circulating on social media with regard to protests, gatherings, threats, hate crimes or other incidents related to the current context is reported immediately and directly into the Police via 101/Crimestoppers to be verified.

"It is very important that such information is not shared more widely unless it is fully corroborated. Where and when necessary, Bedfordshire Police will share any credible threats or risks directly with community partners, and if appropriate the wider community.

"Reporting in to the Police by the appropriate channels is also hugely important so they can have a clear picture of the actual situation and any threats and risks across the town to be able to share this with partners and the public.

"By working in this way together, we can all take responsibility to ensure that community tensions are not made worse, the risks of disorder are minimised, and that we work as one community to keep everyone safe.”