An Essex hotel accommodating asylum seekers has been vandalised with hostile graffiti telling migrants to "go home," following violent protests in the area. The unrest erupted after an Ethiopian resident of the hotel was charged with sexually assaulting a young girl.
The building, which has been temporarily housing asylum seekers, was spray-painted with slogans such as "No More Hotels" and "Stop the Invasion." Local authorities have condemned the vandalism, calling it a "shameful act of intimidation."
Violent Protests Erupt Over Assault Charge
Tensions flared in the community after news broke that a male asylum seeker staying at the hotel had been arrested and charged with sexually assaulting a minor. The incident reportedly occurred earlier this month, though details remain limited due to legal restrictions.
Residents took to the streets in protest, with some clashes turning violent. Police were forced to intervene as demonstrators confronted both authorities and pro-migrant activists.
Authorities Urge Calm Amid Rising Tensions
Local officials have appealed for calm while investigations into both the assault allegation and the subsequent vandalism continue. A spokesperson for the Home Office stated that they "take all allegations extremely seriously" and are cooperating with law enforcement.
Meanwhile, migrant support groups have expressed concern over the safety of asylum seekers at the hotel, calling for increased security measures.
