Police have made three arrests in East Sussex following reports of disorder outside the Crowborough training camp.
It follows two incidents reported at the entrance to the camp at 7.45pm on Friday, 23 January, where a small group had gathered.
The gathering was initially peaceful, however when a vehicle was leaving the site, three individuals were threatening and intimidatory. The individuals caused an obstruction, shouted abuse, and struck the vehicle, alarming the driver and passengers.
Sussex Police can confirm that a 36-year-old man and a 62-year-old woman from Crowborough, and a 54-year-old man from Newhaven, were arrested this morning on suspicion of an offence under section 4a of the Public Order Act.
They have been bailed, pending further investigation.
Chief Superintendent James Collis said: “We know that the use of the Crowborough Training Camp for asylum accommodation has caused concern within the community.
“Sussex Police has engaged with lawful protesters regularly over their concerns and will continue to enable the right to peaceful protest.
“However, last night there was a small group of people within the gathering that acted in a threatening and intimidatory manner to people going about their lawful business at the entrance to the site.
“This behaviour is not acceptable, and we will not tolerate abusive or threatening behaviour.
“Our officers are working hard to ensure everyone in and around Crowborough and at the camp are kept safe. Where individuals seek to commit criminal acts, they can expect to face robust action from the police.
“We have increased our police presence in Crowborough and the surrounding area to provide a clear point of contact for the public for engagement and reassurance, which will continue over the coming weeks .
“Any incidents will be responded to based on threat, harm and risk, in line with our existing processes for preventing crime and responding to calls for service across Sussex.
“We will continue to work with our partners to support the local community, and encourage anyone with concerns to speak with officers in the street or at their local police station.
“The Home Office retains responsibility for the site, its security and its occupants, and we encourage anyone with concerns relating to the site to contact the Home Office in the first instance.”
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