Council leader concerned protests could be 'hijacked by agitators'
It follows allegations of a "cover-up" about suspects charged over an alleged rape in Nuneaton
Last updated 9th Aug 2025
Warwickshire County Council leader George Finch said he is concerned protests will be "hijacked by agitators" in Nuneaton amid allegations of a "cover-up" about suspects charged over an alleged rape.
Mr Finch, who is the youngest council leader in the country, released a statement on Friday urging people to act in a "peaceful manner" at protests expected to take place in the town on Saturday afternoon.
A protest has been organised at the Town Hall after two men, reportedly Afghan asylum seekers, were charged by Warwickshire Police over the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl in Nuneaton.
A Stand Up to Racism protest is also taking place at the Town Hall in Nuneaton on Saturday.
Ahmad Mulakhil, 23, was charged with rape, according to Warwickshire Police, while Mohammad Kabir, 23, was charged with kidnap, strangulation and aiding and abetting rape of a girl under 13 after the alleged offence in Nuneaton.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and Mr Finch claimed there had been a "cover-up" of details about the alleged rape case by authorities.
In a post shared on his Facebook page, Mr Finch wrote: "I am aware that there are protests planned in Nuneaton tomorrow.
"While the right to peaceful protest is a fundamental right, I am deeply concerned about the risk for these events to be hijacked by agitators who seek to cause disorder and division within our community.
"In other towns, we have seen examples of these protests resulting in violence to police and damage to property.
"These actions have no place in Warwickshire and would damage our community spirit we value so much."
The council leader said people should conduct themselves "in a peaceful manner and with respect to others in mind", adding that "our community's reputation is at stake, and we must show that we are better than the chaos that some wish to incite".
Mr Finch's statement concluded: "If you witness any suspicious or illegal activities, please report them to the police immediately. Together, we can ensure that the town of Nuneaton and Warwickshire as a whole remains a safe place for all its residents.
"Thank you for your understanding and cooperation."
Warwickshire Police chief constable Alex Franklin-Smith said the force "did not and will not" cover up alleged criminality and had followed national guidance.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has since called for more transparency from police about suspects, and said it was an "operational decision" for forces and the Crown Prosecution Service over what information to release.
A statement from Assistant Chief Constable Claire Armes ahead of planned protest activity in the county this weekend.
“We've been out and about today talking with residents and businesses.
“We understand people are concerned and they've been asking lots of questions around planned protest activity in the county later this week.
“We police without fear or favour. People may peacefully protest but we won’t tolerate criminal or violent behaviour.
“We will deal with anyone committing crime or anti-social behaviour swiftly and robustly.
“To anyone concerned: we have full policing plans in place to ensure residents and businesses can go about their lives as usual.
“Your neighbourhood officers and PCSOs will be out and about as usual through the week. If you have any concerns, please stop them and have a chat.”