06/08/2024 - Statement from Bedfordshire local authorities, Beds PCC and Beds Fire Authority

“Along with everyone concerned across our community, we have been watching the deplorable violent events in a number of cities and towns across the UK targeting minority communities and the police with revulsion and grave concern.

“Bedfordshire is a safe multicultural county. We, and all our communities, reject extremism, violence and those who seek to divide us.

“We are working closely with Bedfordshire Police 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 any of our towns.

“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, to divert already stretched resources from where they are needed to protect the public.

“For this reason, we would ask everyone to ensure that any information that they receive circulating on social media regarding potential 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 crucial that information from unofficial sources is not shared more widely. Where and when necessary, Bedfordshire Police will share any credible threats or risks directly with community partners, and if appropriate the wider community.

“Reporting into the police by the appropriate channels is hugely important to provide a clear picture of the actual situation and any threats and risks across Bedfordshire. 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.”