Police arrest 20 following terrifying Leeds riots where bus was set on fire

23 July 2024 , 14:57

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Images from the scene of the riots shows one car burnt to a crisp ( Image: Tom Maddick / SWNS)

Seventeen people have been arrested in connection with major disturbance and arson in Harehills, Leeds - which saw a double-decker bus and cars set on fire

Police have arrested 20 people in connection with a major disturbance in Leeds which saw a double-decker bus set on fire and riots erupt in the streets across the Harehills area.

In an update today, police said that 17 of the arrests are directly related to the night’s disorder and three others were made because of other issues within the area.

The incident saw groups of violent mobs set ablaze huge fires as police cruisers were battered and vandalised during the intense altercations. Social media erupted with harrowing clips of the bedlam, showcasing large groups flinging objects and shattering the windows of cop cars.

West Yorkshire Police said in a statement today that the “fast-paced investigation continues” and 40 suspects have so far been identified. Assistant Chief Constable Patrick Twiggs said: “Arresting and bringing to justice those involved in last week’s disorder in Harehills remains a key focus for the force.

“A dedicated investigation team was set up within hours of the disorder, with initial arrests taking place early on Friday morning and continuing over the weekend. We have promised residents that all necessary resources will be utilised to bring in all those believed to be involved, and our efforts will continue.

“I want to thank residents in Harehills for their dignified response to the offending committed by a minority on Thursday night and Friday morning. 

Of those arrested so far, three have been charged on suspicion of committing criminal offences, police said. Mark Mitchell, 43, and Zamonsty Milan, 30, are due to appear before Leeds Magistrates Court today (Tuesday 23 July) - both charged with arson reckless as to endanger life and violent disorder.

Iustin Dobre, 37, of Clifton Mount, appeared before Magistrates yesterday (Monday 22 July) charged with violent disorder and arson reckless as to endanger life.

Other parties arrested have been released on police bail with conditions imposed to reduce the likelihood of further offending. We expect to make more arrests in the coming days.

Large groups were seen flinging objects and shattering windows of cop cars ( Image: Joel Goodman/LNP)

Constable Patrick Twiggs added: “We continue to work with the communities of Harehills and have engaged in several community meetings since Thursday evening. These have been well-attended allowing us to understand the strength of feeling in the community and support for police action.

“Residents rightly want to see those involved progress through the criminal justice system and local officers remain highly visible to support the local community. This targeted support will continue for as long as it is necessary.”

Elizabeth Baker