Dorset Police news site

Dorset Police would like to reassure communities of its commitment to prevent disorder and enable peaceful protests in Bournemouth.

The Force is fully aware of protests that are due to take place in the town centre on Sunday 18 August 2024 and robust plans are in place to deal with any reports of public disorder.

Officers have been liaising with the organisers to ensure people can exercise their right to protest legally and safely, while minimising the impact on residents, visitors and businesses.

The approach to this event has involved partner agencies from across Dorset working together and all are committed to ensuring our communities are kept safe.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan, of Dorset Police, said: “We understand that members of the public may be feeling concerned about the planned protest activity in Bournemouth following the unacceptable violence that has been seen elsewhere across the country.

“I would like to reassure the public that we have been moving at pace to ensure we have all available resources in place to respond to any reports of disorder. This has included drafting in resources from other forces and these dedicated and specially trained public order officers will be on duty working tirelessly to ensure there is no significant disruption to the public.

“Anyone who will be in Bournemouth town centre on Sunday can expect to see a heightened police presence. We are there to protect you and to enable peaceful protests to take place. We also have officers and staff who will be answering the usual calls from the public, responding to incidents and investigating offences.

“Our local neighbourhood policing teams, alongside staff from BCP Council, have this week been liaising with the business community in the town and key community groups to listen to concerns and reassure them of our robust policing plans. This will continue as we head toward the weekend.

“While we will enable safe and lawful protests, I want to make it absolutely clear that anyone intent on being involved in criminality on our streets will be dealt with swiftly and robustly. Offenders will be arrested and brought before the courts, and in conjunction with the Crown Prosecution Service, we will seek the highest level of sentence.

“There is simply no place for racism, hatred or violence in Dorset and we will do all we can, while working with our partner agencies, to tackle any disorder.”

Councillor Millie Earl, Leader of BCP Council said: “I want to reassure all residents that BCP Council is ready and prepared for all eventualities ahead of the planned protest on Sunday.

“The safety of our residents remains our priority. In readiness for the event, we are continuing to work closely with Dorset Police and other partners and have put in place additional security measures which include installing CCTV cameras in key areas, providing additional Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS) patrols and taking precautionary action to make sure any building sites in the area are safe.

“Additionally, we remain in regular dialogue with community and faith leaders, businesses and resident groups to provide reassurance and support.”

Anyone who may have information about planned protests or disorder is encouraged to contact Dorset Police by reporting online at www.dorset.police.uk or calling 101. Alternatively, you can report information via our Intelligence Portal at: https://www.dorset.police.uk/police-forces/dorset-police/areas/about-us/local-support-and-guidance/intelligence/ or contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. If a crime is in progress dial 999.