India issues advisory for travellers to UK amid riots

Digital Desk: The High Commission of India in London on Tuesday issued a safety advisory urging Indian nationals to "stay vigilant and exercise due caution" amid ongoing violent clashes targeting immigrants and asylum seekers in parts of the UK. The advisory, shared on the Indian mission's social media platforms, includes emergency contact information for those needing urgent assistance. 

This advisory follows the recent fatal stabbing of three young girls in Southport, northwest England, and incorrect social media claims about the asylum-seeker status of the UK-born suspect. "Indian travellers would be aware of recent disturbances in some parts of the United Kingdom. The High Commission of India in London is closely monitoring the situation," reads the message entitled 'Advisory for Indian Citizens Visiting the UK.'

"Visitors from India are advised to stay vigilant and exercise due caution while travelling in the UK. It is advisable to follow local news and advisories issued by local security agencies, and to avoid areas where protests are underway," it added.

The contact provided for India House at Aldwych, London, in case of an emergency is: +44-2078369147 and inf.london@mea.gov.in.

Recent clashes between protesters have occurred in Birmingham and Plymouth. In Belfast, Northern Ireland, a man is in serious condition following a suspected hate crime, and in Darlington, northern England, police officers were attacked with bricks. The British government has expedited plans to address prison capacity in anticipation of increased incarcerations due to the riots, which have led to hundreds of arrests. 

Neil Basu, former head of counter-terrorism policing, criticized social media companies for inadequate action against misinformation, suggesting that advertisers should pressure these platforms to take responsibility. The UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) and Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology are investigating the role of foreign state actors in amplifying misinformation about the UK riots and are focusing on cracking down on automated online bots. 

Prime Minister Keir Starmer's spokesperson revealed that bot activity, potentially amplified by state actors, has contributed to the spread of misinformation. Following a high-level COBRA security meeting, Starmer pledged to deploy a "standing army" of specialist officers to address the riots, which he has described as "far-right thuggery." 

Despite calls from Labour Party MPs and Opposition members to recall Parliament from its summer recess for a debate, Starmer has emphasized the need to focus on restoring calm. The riots were triggered by the July 29 stabbing incident in Southport, where Axel Rudakubana, 17, has been charged with three murders. Rudakubana, born in Cardiff to Rwandan parents, was incorrectly labeled as a refugee arriving last year in initial social media posts.