UK Police Unit to Monitor Anti-Migrant Social Posts

The UK government has established the National Internet Intelligence Investigations team, an elite police unit tasked with monitoring social media for anti-migrant posts and early signs of civil unrest amid growing protests outside asylum hotels. Coordinated from the National Police Coordination Centre, the unit was formed following criticism of police handling during previous riots and in response to recommendations for a nationally coordinated approach to online threats. The initiative has drawn criticism from members of the Conservative and Reform UK parties, who argue it threatens free speech and fosters a surveillance state. The Home Office defends the measure as necessary for public safety, citing recent protests involving violence, assaults, property damage, and harassment of asylum hotel residents and staff. In response to escalating disorder, local police have imposed restrictions around protest sites. The government maintains that the unit will aid local commanders and help prevent further unrest, though critics warn of excessive state control over public discourse.