Protests Erupt Over Asylum Seeker Housing at Bell Hotel

Heightened tensions over the use of hotels to accommodate asylum seekers erupted into violence at the Bell Hotel in Epping Forest, as police faced rock and egg assaults from protesters. The demonstrations, triggered by the arrest of a local asylum seeker for alleged sexual assault, saw over 100 people gathering near the hotel.

The situation turned hostile, with projectiles thrown at police vans and officers injured while managing the crowd. Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow of Essex Police condemned the acts as 'mindless thuggery.' The government's approach to housing asylum seekers, which has faced criticism, played a significant role in fueling discontent.

Diana Johnson, the policing minister, characterized the violence as 'criminal' and unacceptable. As charges proceed against those involved, local authorities continue to express dissatisfaction with the choice of the Bell Hotel as a temporary accommodation site, a stance local MPs are now rallying behind.

(With inputs from agencies.)