Nine Romanians were detained after disturbances in the British city of Leeds, one of whom was charged

Nine Romanian citizens were detained, eight of whom were later released, following the street riot that broke out on July 18 in Leeds, Great Britain. The unrest broke out after British authorities took over the children of a Romanian family in response to the hospitalization of one of the children, a 7-month-old, with a head injury.

British police have also charged a Romanian suspected of setting fire to a bus during the disorder in the Harehills area of ​​Leeds. Iustin Dobre, 37, was charged with violent disorder and arson endangering life, according to a police press release.

Growing crowds have taken part in the unrest, but videos posted on social media of the July 18 riot clearly show those overturning the police car speaking Romanian.

The Romanian Consulate in Manchester continues to communicate with the Romanian family affected by the child custody measures, as well as with community representatives and religious groups. They are also in contact with the British authorities.

“As a result of the efforts made by CG Manchester, the British authorities informed today, July 21, 2024, about the detention of nine Romanian citizens involved in the incidents of the evening of July 18, 2024. Subsequently, eight of them were released. “, announced the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania, on Sunday, July 21.

The institution also said that an investigation by local police authorities is currently underway.

A vigil was held after the disturbances in the street, but it remained peaceful. Participants called for the children to be returned to their families.

Local police have announced that more officers will be on the streets in the area in the coming days.

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(Photo source: Flynt | Dreamstime.com)