Five people arrested following Bristol city centre protests
A protest and counter-protest were held on Saturday
Last updated 18th May 2025
Police have arrested five people during protests in Bristol city centre.
Around 100 people attended a UK Independence Party (UKIP) demo, with around 250 people gathering for a counter-protest yesterday (17 May).
Avon and Somerset Police said five people were arrested by officers: a 37-year-old man on suspicion of assault, a 25-year-old man on suspicion of theft and two women and a man on suspicion of breach of the peace.
Silver Commander for the protest, Ch Insp Jason Sims, said: “Overall, both groups were calm and engaged with officers, however we did see a handful of clashes between the two sides.
“A number of arrests have been made and investigations and further enquiries continue.
“I would like to take the opportunity to praise the officers and staff involved in the policing of this event. The feedback I have received so far is that officers acted professionally and proportionately to keep the members of the public safe and to facilitate the protests.
“A large number of our officers cancelled their days off with their loved ones to facilitate the policing of this event, which enabled us to keep the public safe, and I cannot thank them enough for making that personal sacrifice.
“I would also like to thank our colleagues at the ambulance and fire services and local authority for their support.”