Violent disorder erupts in Birmingham over false protest reports
We're here outside The Clumsy Swan in Yardley, which saw shocking scenes of violence on Monday evening. A group of youths broke away from a larger gathering and attacked this pub, resulting in serious disorder and a lone man being assaulted.
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00:00On Monday evening, Birmingham faced a night of unprecedented turmoil.
00:04Rumours of an impending far-right protest led to hundreds gathering in Bordesley Green.
00:09Despite no far-right protests appearing, misinformation sparked fear and chaos.
00:15What started as a peaceful gathering near a McDonald's, spiralled into rioting.
00:20Late in the evening, a smaller group of masked and armed youths broke away from the main crowd.
00:26They attacked the Clumsy Swan in Yardley.
00:29The most disturbing scene was the brutal assault on a lone man on the terrace,
00:33as shocked customers watched from inside.
00:36Video circulating online showed the extent of the violence,
00:39with masked individuals brandishing weapons.
00:43In total, there were at least three incidents of criminal damage and an assault,
00:48according to West Midlands Police.
00:50Vehicles had windows smashed, and in some cases, tyres were slashed.
00:54False reports of other threats, like an acid attack rumour in Middlesbrough, only added to the tension.
01:00These unfounded claims spread rapidly on social media.
01:04Authorities have condemned the spread of these rumours,
01:07stressing the danger they pose to public order and community relations.
01:12Police have started investigations, but so far no arrests have been made at the point of recording.
01:18They've promised to increase their presence in the area to restore order and reassure the community.
01:23In the wake of the deadly South Ford stabbings last week, anxiety and tensions remain high across the UK.
01:30Monday's events in Birmingham illustrated the dangerous power of misinformation in the city,
01:35showing how quickly community relations can unravel.
01:39As Birmingham tries to return to normal, the focus now turns to rebuilding trust
01:43and ensuring that a night of such chaos does not repeat itself.
01:48With increased police patrols and ongoing investigations,
01:52the community hopes for a swift return to peace and stability.