Update following protest this evening

An increased policing presence will remain in Epsom town centre following a protest and subsequent disorder this evening (Monday 20 April).

The organised protest started at 5pm outside Epsom train station before escalating to public disorder when individuals targeted local hotels and residential properties with claims that these were housing people seeking asylum. This is not the case and is wholly inaccurate information.

The escalating behaviour of some of the protesters and the threat to officer safety, including missiles being thrown at them, required officers to put on full protective public order uniform.

Four people remain in police custody after being arrested on suspicion of offences, including criminal damage and assaulting an emergency worker, during the disorder.

We recognise that this will have had an impact on local residents and businesses, and neighbourhood officers will continue to engage with our communities over the coming days.

While we respect the right to lawful protest, criminal offences and public disorder will not be tolerated. Robust action will be taken against anyone who commits a criminal offence.

We will continue to review footage of this evening’s incident to identify those responsible for any further criminal offences and take appropriate action against them.