Security Staff Attacked During Racially Aggravated Protest Outside Essex Asylum Hotel

Two security guards at The Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, which houses asylum seekers, were seriously injured in a racially aggravated attack by a group of men at a nearby bus stop during an ongoing protest against the hotel. The incident followed community tensions after Ethiopian asylum seeker Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu was charged with sexual assaults near the hotel shortly after arriving in the UK. Police are conducting an extensive investigation into the attack and have urged the public to avoid speculation that could hinder the case. Conservative local officials and MPs have called for the closure of the hotel amid concerns over asylum seeker accommodation, while the Home Office acknowledges strain on the asylum system and aims to reduce reliance on hotel housing over time. The attack took place amid heightened emotions following recent fires at two local asylum hotels and other related criminal charges, prompting a significant police presence to maintain safety. Authorities emphasize that all crimes, regardless of community tensions, will not be tolerated, and they are actively seeking information to identify those responsible.