Tensions remain high in Epping as the number of arrests tied to the Epping asylum hotel protests climbs to 16, with Essex Police confirming six people now face charges. The protests, which started after a local criminal case involving an asylum seeker, have grown into a wider debate about asylum accommodation, community safety, and the spread of misinformation.
What Happened and Why It Matters
On July 24, 2025, Essex Police announced that 16 people had been arrested in connection with violent disorder outside the Bell Hotel in Epping. This hotel has been used to house asylum seekers, and recent protests there have turned violent. Six of those arrested now face charges: four for violent disorder, one for failing to remove a face covering when told to do so, and one for theft of police equipment and carrying an offensive weapon.
The most serious violence broke out on July 17, when a protest escalated and left eight police officers injured. Property was damaged, and police released bodycam footage showing the arrests. As of now, police are still looking for three more suspects: Martin Peagram (33), Shaun Thompson (37), and Philip Curson (52). Officers are reviewing video evidence and expect to make more arrests soon.
How Police Are Responding
Essex Police have taken several steps to try to keep order and protect both the public and asylum seekers:
- Dispersal Orders: Police have issued dispersal orders for Epping town centre and nearby transport hubs. These orders, allowed under Section 35 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, give officers the power to tell anyone suspected of causing trouble to leave the area. The latest order runs from 2pm on July 24 to 8am on July 25.
- Increased Patrols: Officers have stepped up their presence around the Bell Hotel and local transport links. Security guards at the hotel were also attacked and hospitalized on Sunday night.
- Public Appeals: Police are asking for help from the public to find the three suspects still at large. They encourage anyone with information to contact them directly.
Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow and Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hooper have both spoken out against the violence. They stress that while peaceful protest is allowed, criminal acts will not be tolerated. They also point out that many of those arrested are not from Epping, suggesting that outside groups may be fueling the unrest.
What Sparked the Protests?
The protests began after Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, a 38-year-old Ethiopian asylum seeker, was charged with three counts of sexual assault, one count of inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity, and one count of harassment without violence. The charges followed an alleged attempt to kiss a 14-year-old girl. Kebatu had arrived in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 just eight days earlier by small boat. He pleaded not guilty at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on July 17 and is set to stand trial in August.
At first, the protests were mostly peaceful. But things quickly changed. Demonstrators started chanting slogans like “Save our kids” and “Send them home.” Some people threw flares and objects at police officers. Police believe that outside agitators played a big role in turning the protests violent.
Spread of Protests and Misinformation
The unrest in Epping has not stayed local. Similar protests have popped up in London, especially at the Britannia Hotel in Canary Wharf, and in other towns. Rumors about migrant relocations and the cost of hotel accommodation have spread quickly, often fueled by far-right activists and misleading posts on social media.
For example, some people claimed that the government was paying £400 per night for each asylum seeker at the Britannia Hotel. In reality, the cost is £81 per night per person. These false claims have made tensions worse and led to more protests.
Key Stakeholders and Their Views
- Essex Police: The police leadership has made it clear that they will continue to enforce the law and investigate all criminal acts. They also highlight the difference between peaceful protest and violent disorder.
- Epping Forest District Council: Council leader Chris Whitbread has condemned the violence but also repeated his opposition to using the Bell Hotel for asylum seekers. He wants the hotel closed and has called on the Home Office to act.
- UK Government: The Labour government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has promised to end the use of hotels for asylum seekers. The Home Secretary recently shared a plan to clear the asylum backlog and stop using hotels by the end of the current Parliament, saying the cost and impact on communities are too high.
- Parliament: Policing Minister Diana Johnson and other Members of Parliament have condemned the violence and called for those responsible to be prosecuted. There is agreement across political parties that misinformation is a problem and that communities need to work together.
Policy and Community Impact
The events in Epping have put a spotlight on the government’s policy of housing asylum seekers in hotels. At its peak in 2023, the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 was using 400 hotels for this purpose, costing almost £9 million per day. The Bell Hotel protests have increased pressure on the government to find other solutions quickly.
Local people have mixed feelings. Some are worried about safety and upset that they were not consulted about the hotel’s use. Others have joined peaceful protests, while some have been influenced by rumors or outside groups. The situation has made it harder for the community to come together.
How Law Enforcement Handles These Cases
When someone is arrested for violent disorder or related crimes, they go through the normal criminal justice process. Those charged appear before magistrates’ courts, where decisions about bail and trial dates are made based on the seriousness of the charges.
Dispersal orders, like those used in Epping, are a tool police can use for up to 48 hours to prevent further trouble. These orders are allowed under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. Police have also asked the public to help identify suspects by sharing information or video footage.
Community and Advocacy Group Perspectives
Senior police officers say it is a challenge to keep the community safe while also respecting the right to protest. They warn that misinformation and organized far-right groups are making things worse. Local government leaders and MPs want the Bell Hotel closed and the asylum accommodation policy reviewed.
Advocacy groups supporting migrants have also been present at the protests. Police have had to escort these groups for their safety. There are real concerns about the safety of asylum seekers who have not done anything wrong.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Epping and Beyond
- More Arrests Likely: Police are still looking for more suspects and expect to make additional arrests as their investigation continues.
- Policy Changes Coming: The government’s promise to stop using hotels for asylum seekers is expected to speed up. New types of accommodation and more returns for those whose asylum claims fail are likely.
- Community Tensions Remain: More protests could happen, and police are preparing for possible unrest. They are urging people to check facts and not believe everything they see online.
Key Numbers at a Glance (as of July 24, 2025):
- Total arrests: 16
- People charged: 6
- Police officers injured: 8 (on July 17)
- Dispersal order in effect: July 24, 2pm to July 25, 8am
- Hotel accommodation cost (Britannia Hotel, Canary Wharf): £81 per night per person
- Trial date for accused asylum seeker: August 2025
The Role of Misinformation
One of the biggest challenges in Epping has been the spread of false information. Social media posts have exaggerated the cost of hotel accommodation and made claims about the number of migrants being moved into the area. This has made it harder for police and local leaders to calm the situation.
Police and government officials are urging people to get their information from trusted sources. They warn that misinformation can lead to panic, anger, and even violence.
Official Resources and Where to Get Help
If you have information about the Epping asylum hotel protests or the suspects still being sought, Essex Police ask you to contact them. You can visit the Essex Police official website or call their non-emergency number (101 in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧).
For updates on local government actions, the Epping Forest District Council provides statements and news on their website. The UK Home Office also shares policy updates and official statements about asylum accommodation.
What Can Be Done to Reduce Tensions?
- Clear Communication: Authorities need to keep the public informed with accurate, up-to-date information. This helps stop rumors before they spread.
- Community Engagement: Local leaders should involve residents in decisions about asylum accommodation. Listening to concerns and explaining policies can build trust.
- Support for Peaceful Protest: Police and officials must protect the right to protest while making sure protests stay peaceful and safe.
- Swift Action Against Crime: Law enforcement should continue to act quickly against anyone who commits violent disorder or other crimes during protests.
- Help for Asylum Seekers: Support services for asylum seekers, especially those who have not broken any laws, are important for their safety and well-being.
Voices from the Community
Many people in Epping feel caught in the middle. Some are worried about safety, especially after the recent criminal case. Others are upset about the way the hotel was chosen for asylum accommodation without local input. There are also residents who want to welcome newcomers and make sure everyone is treated fairly.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the Epping asylum hotel protests show how quickly tensions can rise when communities feel left out of important decisions and when misinformation spreads unchecked. The events have also highlighted the need for better ways to house asylum seekers and support both local communities and new arrivals.
Legal and Policy Background
The use of dispersal orders by police is based on the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. This law lets officers tell people to leave an area if they think trouble might happen. Those who do not follow the order can be arrested.
When someone is charged with violent disorder, theft, or other crimes, they go through the standard court process. The courts decide on bail and set trial dates based on the charges. For more on how dispersal orders work, you can read about the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
What Should Residents and Protesters Know?
- Peaceful protest is allowed, but violence is not. Police will act against anyone who breaks the law.
- Check facts before sharing information. Misinformation can make things worse for everyone.
- If you have concerns, contact local officials or the police. They can answer questions and provide updates.
- Support is available for those affected. Both the council and local charities can help residents and asylum seekers.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The Epping asylum hotel protests have brought national attention to the challenges of housing asylum seekers and keeping communities safe. With 16 arrests so far and more likely, Essex Police remain focused on stopping violent disorder and protecting everyone involved. The government’s promise to end hotel use for asylum seekers is expected to bring changes soon, but tensions may continue as new policies are put in place.
Residents, officials, and advocacy groups all have a role to play in making sure Epping moves forward in a way that is safe, fair, and based on facts. By working together and staying informed, the community can help prevent further unrest and support those who need it most.
Learn Today
Asylum Seeker → A person seeking international protection who has applied for asylum but not yet granted refugee status.
Dispersal Order → A police order requiring people suspected of causing trouble to leave a specific area for up to 48 hours.
Violent Disorder → A criminal offense involving the use or threat of violence by a group causing public disturbance.
Misinformation → False or misleading information spread unintentionally or deliberately, often escalating social tensions.
Magistrates’ Court → A local court where minor criminal offenses are tried and decisions on bail or trial dates are made.
This Article in a Nutshell
Violent protests over asylum seekers at Epping’s Bell Hotel led to 16 arrests and six charges. Police use dispersal orders and increased patrols to restore order amid widespread misinformation raising tensions across communities.
— By VisaVerge.com
