Iran Press/ Europe: A demonstration in Bristol against plans to give police increased powers to shut down peaceful protests has become violent, with riot police and horses deployed, officers injured and vehicles torched after a week of protests against the controversial legislation.
According to the Guardian, hundreds gathered at Bristol’s College Green before marching to a police station on nearby Nelson Street. Many were wearing masks and carried placards saying “Say no to UK police state” and “Freedom to protest is fundamental to democracy” and “Kill the bill”.
What began as a sit-down protest outside the station escalated as the evening progressed, as riot police, dogs and police horses were deployed and police station windows were smashed.
Footage shared on social media showed demonstrators surrounded by riot officers and mounted police while chanting “10 years for protests, five years for rape” outside the station.
The bill would give the police in England and Wales more power to impose conditions on non-violent protests, including those deemed too noisy or a nuisance, with protesters potentially facing fines or prison sentences.
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Protesters gather outside UK Parliament and police headquarters for third night
