Female police officer 'seriously bitten' as anti-migrant protesters target suspected asylum seeker home in Norfolk

Violence erupted in the Norfolk town of Thetford after anti-migrant protesters allegedly attempted to break into a house believed to be accommodating asylum seekers, leaving three police officers injured, including a female officer who was “seriously bitten”, police said.

Norfolk Constabulary said officers were called to St John’s Way on Tuesday evening following reports of disorder involving a crowd gathered outside a residential property. According to police, demonstrators attempted to gain entry to the house, which was suspected of housing asylum seekers, prompting officers to intervene.

The force said a female officer suffered a serious bite injury during the confrontation, while another officer was struck by a rock. A third officer was spat at during the incident. Windows at the property were also damaged as police worked to restore order.

Police make arrests as residents evacuated

Norfolk Police said two men were arrested following the disorder. One man remains in custody, while another, identified as 68-year-old Brian Thompson, has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon and is due to appear before Norwich Magistrates’ Court later this month. Investigations into the violence are continuing.

Police also moved several men believed to be staying at the property to a place of safety after the crowd targeted multiple homes in the area. Authorities said officers acted quickly to prevent further violence and to protect residents.

The disturbances come amid growing tensions over government plans to accommodate around 1,000 to 1,250 asylum seekers at the nearby former RAF Barnham site, a proposal that has sparked protests in the area. Local officials have condemned the violence while reiterating that concerns over government policy must be expressed peacefully.

Norfolk Police urged anyone with information, photographs or video footage of the disorder to come forward as detectives continue their investigation. The force said officers would maintain a visible presence in the area to reassure residents and prevent any further unrest.