SIX people have been arrested following 'reports circulating online of potential planned disorder' in Carlisle yesterday (August 7). 

The arrests, made during an increased police presence in the city, followed after a dispersal order was put in place for a large part of the city centre and surrounding areas. 

Whilst a protest never materialised in Carlisle, as seen in other parts of the UK yesterday, in anticipation of potential trouble, some local businesses closed early.

Three men were arrested on suspicion of public order offences connected to the posting of content online which intended to stir up religious hatred.

The men are a 41-year-old from Carlisle linked to posts advocating violence against police and public disorder, a 40-year-old from Carlisle, and a 31-year-old from Maryport both associated with hate-related posts.

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During investigations across the city, another two men, an 18-year-old from Carlisle was arrested on suspicion of possession of cannabis whilst a 33-year-old man from Sunderland was arrested on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly.

These five men remain in custody.

A 16-year-old boy, from Penrith, was also arrested on suspicion of breach of a dispersal order.

 

Chief Superintendent Carl Patrick, Cumbria Constabulary, said: “Our officers have been out across Carlisle today to keep our communities safe from potential planned disorder.

“Our proactive actions and the support of our communities have resulted in no significant disorder taking place.

“We took positive action into reports of online activity which attempted to incite violence and hatred. This sends a very clear message that we will not hesitate to act against those who post such content online.

“Criminality of any kind will not be tolerated in our county, and we will do all we can to ensure offenders are brought to justice. We are not complacent and will continue to carry out this proactive policing approach.”