Leeds incident: Prime Minister condemns 'shocking and disgraceful' rioting in Harehills

Pictures show vehicles on fire and large crowds in Harehills, Leeds

Sir Keir Starmer has condemned the "shocking and disgraceful” rioting in the Harehills area of Leeds.

Vehicles were set on fire and a police car was overturned as residents were warned to stay at home on Thursday evening.

Following comments from Home Secretary Yvette Cooper condemning the "shocking scenes", a spokesperson for the Prime Minister said: “He would echo that the scenes that we saw last night were shocking and disgraceful. And disorder of this nature has no place in our society.

“That’s why he would like to thank West Yorkshire Police and the emergency services for their swift support.

“And the police have our full support in carrying out their investigations and taking the strongest possible action against perpetrators and keep the public safe.”

Trouble flared after social services were called to a family incident in Luxor Street in Harehills at around 5pm.

More people started to attend the location and the agency workers and children were taken to a safe place, police said.

A crowd started to gather and more officers were requested to attend the area where “pockets of disorder” were emerging.

Livestream footage on social media showed vehicles, including a bus, ablaze, while other videos showed an overturned police car on the road with its blue lights flashing, sirens blaring, car alarms going off and crowds of people in the street – some of them shouting.

Riesa, a pharmacy dispenser who did not want to give her last name, witnessed “quite violent” scenes, saying she saw people throwing items at police officers and cars.

The 26-year-old, who lives off Harehills Lane, said: “They were attacking police cars, throwing things at the police cars – anything they could pick up off the floor really. Rocks from the garden, rubbish, drinks, anything.

“Drinks were definitely being throwing at the police – water or juice or fizzy drinks, or anything they had in their hands basically, at the cars because [the police] were trying not to get too close because it was quite violent.”

She said about an hour later, when she was back home, she heard “chanting and screaming” from outside, adding that it sounded like “a thousand people”.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper condemned the "shocking scenes" and thanked the police.

She wrote on X: "I am appalled at the shocking scenes and attacks on police vehicles & public transport in Leeds tonight. Disorder of this nature has no place in our society.

"My thanks go to West Yorkshire police for their response. I am being kept regularly updated."

Salma Arif, councillor for Gipton and Harehills, warned residents to stay at home in a video she posted on social media, featuring an East Leeds Neighbourhood Policing Inspector.

Ms Arif said: “There is an ongoing situation currently in Harehills, we’re aware of that so police is here.

“We are asking everybody in the area to please stay at home at this moment in time.”

The inspector added: “If you could all stay where you are, stay in your houses, we will manage this and if you’re out in the crowd I would just ask you to go home please so we can keep everybody safe.”

Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said she was "appalled" by the violence.

"Such criminal behaviour will not be tolerated and I am in touch with West Yorkshire Police for regular updates on the progress of their investigation," she said.

"I would urge everyone to refrain from speculation on social media and if members of the public believe they have footage of criminal behaviour, I would ask for this to be passed on to the police.

"I am relieved that nobody was seriously hurt in this incident - we will provide any support we can to the people of Harehills following the violence perpetrated in their community."

Speaking on Friday morning, West Yorkshire Police Federation chair Craig Nicholls said the incident highlighted the "unpredictable challenges faced by our officers".

He said: "What should have been a standard duty quickly turned into a night of chaos, highlighting the need for robust support and resources for those tasked with maintaining public safety.

"Despite the conditions, the resilience of our colleagues was nothing short of remarkable. In the face of aggression and disorder, their quick thinking and bravery were critical in bringing the situation to a safe conclusion.

"Their actions prevented further escalation and safeguarded the lives of many in the community. These officers acted with professionalism and courage, exemplifying the very best of what it means to serve and protect."

In a statement, West Yorkshire Police said the "full weight of the law" would be brought against those responsible. They also warned against speculation circulating on social media.

A force spokesperson said: "We would strongly discourage residents from speculating on the cause of this disorder which we believe has been instigated by a criminal minority intent on disrupting community relations."

"Officers are aware of incorrect information circulating on social media suggesting persons potentially responsible."

Asked about fears of community tensions being inflamed, the Prime Minister's spokesperson said: “The police have also discouraged people from speculating on the cause of the disorder. And the Prime Minister would also urge people to follow this advice."

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know...