We are aware that the recent disorder seen across the country has left our communities feeling unsafe.
We are working closely with local and national partners and are monitoring a variety of sources, including social media and reports from the public to identify planned protests or disruption in our area, and will keep local communities up to date with the latest information.
Should any planned protests or spontaneous incidents escalate into violent disorder seen elsewhere in the country, we are prepared and officers will swiftly and robustly respond and deal with those choosing to cause harm to our communities.
Please be vigilant to the misleading comments that are circulating on social media about potential protest activity. Please think twice about what you read, share and believe from online sources. There are a lot of motivations for why people may be sharing information so be critical, challenge what you see and if in doubt, look to trusted voices.
Assistant Chief Constable Christian Bunt said:
“I recognise that the disorder seen across the country will cause concern amongst our communities as well as our own officers and staff.
“We have well-rehearsed plans in place to deal with any issues that may arise and will take the most robust stance possible against violence, hatred and discrimination of any kind to hold those who choose to cause harm to our communities accountable for their actions.
“Our intelligence teams are working hard to monitor a number of sources to spot misinformation and suggestions of protests and investigating where necessary.
“Please be reassured that our neighbourhood officers are continuing to patrol local communities, so if you have any concerns, or if you see them out and about, please do speak with them.
“If you see or hear anything suspicious, please contact us by making a report online, calling 101 or by calling 999 in an emergency.
“We know our communities don’t want disorder on their doorstep – no one should be fearful to leave the house, go to a place of worship or live in a given area. You have our full support and that of our partners.”
Cllr Mary Temperton, leader of Bracknell Forest Council, said:
“Bracknell Forest is a place where we celebrate different cultures and communities.
“We are working with the police and other partners to support the work being carried out to keep our communities safe. I would encourage you to report any information regarding planned disorder to the police. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or report on their online form.
“Any incidences of hate crime, whether to you or someone else, should be reported to the police. Hate crime includes name-calling, whether online or face-to-face and can escalate into more serious incidences. Please don’t be afraid to speak up and report something if it doesn’t seem right.”
For the latest updates, please follow Thames Valley Police social media channels.