Investigation launched into alleged hate crimes following Bristol protest

Police seek witnesses and footage after video circulates online

Author: Katy WhitePublished 12th Mar 2026

An investigation into alleged hate crimes following a protest in Bristol city centre is currently underway after a video of the incident circulated online.

The video, along with reports from four individuals present at the protest and two others who viewed the footage online, has prompted police action.

No arrests have been made in relation to the hate crimes, but enquiries are advancing swiftly.

Bristol Commander, Chief Superintendent Paul Wigginton, stressed the zero-tolerance stance against hate crimes in the region.

"There is no place for hate in Avon and Somerset and we will not tolerate this type of behaviour on our streets," Ch Supt Wigginton said.

He added that a full investigation is being led by a Detective Chief Inspector and plans have been made to contact some of the complainants soon.

"We encourage anyone who witnessed other incidents to come forward as soon as possible if you haven’t already spoken with the police, including those with any related footage."

During the protest, six arrests were made.

Four individuals have been released on bail, while one was de-arrested and will be addressed at a later date.

The sixth person has been released without charge.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.