Clashes break out in UK knife attack town

SOUTHPORT, United Kingdom: Violent clashes broke out Tuesday in the northern England town where a knife attack claimed the lives of three children, with around 100 protesters lighting fires and battling police, according to an AFP reporter.

Thick plumes of smoke could be seen close to where riot police and protesters were standing off, with videos circulating on social media appearing to show a police van on fire.

Police said the crowd was believed to be supporters of the English Defence League, a far-right group, and the unrest was inspired by speculation about the teenage boy arrested in the stabbing that injured 10 other people, including seven who were in critical condition.

“There has been much speculation and hypothesis around the status of a 17-year-old male who is currently in police custody and some individuals are using this to bring violence and disorder to our streets,” Merseyside Assistant Chief Constable Alex Goss said.

“We have already said that the person arrested was born in the UK and speculation helps nobody at this time.

Shortly after a peaceful vigil was attended by hundreds in the center of Southport to mourn the stabbing victims, the crowd near the mosque became unruly.

A police van was set ablaze and sent thick dark smoke billowing into the sky. One officer suffered a broken nose.