Ex-Police Detective Reacts to UK Riots - Peter Bleksley

Added: Aug 8, 2024

The Triggering Events

Bleksley begins by reflecting on the tragic stabbing incident in Southport, which claimed the lives of three young girls during a Taylor Swift-themed event. He expresses deep sorrow for the victims and their families, emphasizing the horror of such violence occurring in a setting meant for joy and celebration. This incident, he argues, was not an isolated event but rather a culmination of simmering tensions that have been building in society for years.

He points to the events at Manchester Airport on July 23 as a significant catalyst for the unrest. A police officer was filmed kicking and stamping on a man who was already subdued, an act that sparked outrage and discontent among various communities. Bleksley notes that while the officer's actions were indefensible, the context surrounding the incident is crucial. He highlights that the public was only shown a short clip of the altercation, which did not provide a complete picture of the events leading up to it. This selective portrayal of information contributes to a growing sense of injustice and frustration among the public.

The Role of Social Media and Disinformation

The discussion then shifts to the role of social media in exacerbating tensions. Bleksley points out that misinformation can spread rapidly online, fueling anger and unrest. He cites a false tweet that linked the Southport attacker to immigration and MI5, which further inflamed public sentiment. He criticizes the police for not being more proactive in addressing such disinformation, arguing that a failure to communicate effectively can lead to a breakdown in trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Bleksley emphasizes the importance of transparency and truth in policing, stating that when people feel that information is being suppressed, it breeds suspicion and resentment. He warns that social cohesion is hanging by a thread and that without honest dialogue, the situation could deteriorate further.

The Underlying Issues of Immigration and Integration

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the broader societal issues of immigration and integration. Bleksley notes that many people in the UK feel that their concerns about immigration have been ignored by politicians. He argues that the demographic changes in certain areas have led to a perception of a lack of integration among some communities, particularly within segments of the Bangladeshi community. He points out that some cultural practices, such as prohibiting women from learning English, hinder integration and contribute to societal tensions.

He also highlights the political landscape, noting that parties like the Reform Party have gained traction by addressing immigration concerns. Bleksley argues that the failure of successive governments to deliver on promises to reduce immigration has left many feeling disillusioned and frustrated. He stresses that these feelings are not confined to far-right extremists but are shared by many ordinary citizens who are simply seeking a rational discussion about immigration and its impacts.

The Perception of Two-Tier Policing

Bleksley addresses the perception of two-tier policing, where different communities seem to be treated differently by law enforcement. He cites historical examples, such as the Rotherham grooming gang scandal, where police were hesitant to act due to fears of being labeled racist. This inconsistency in policing has led to a loss of trust among communities, with many feeling that the law is not applied equally.

He expresses concern that the recent riots and violence will only exacerbate these perceptions. The police's response to the riots, including the number of arrests made, is seen as a way to demonstrate their commitment to maintaining order. However, Bleksley warns that simply arresting individuals will not address the root causes of the unrest. He emphasizes the need for a more nuanced approach that involves engaging with communities and addressing their concerns.

The Political Response and Its Implications

The podcast also touches on the political response to the riots, particularly the rhetoric used by politicians like Keir Starmer. Bleksley criticizes the use of terms like "far-right" to describe those involved in the unrest, arguing that such labels are often lazy and unhelpful. He contends that this kind of language alienates many people who may have legitimate concerns about immigration and social cohesion.

He expresses skepticism about whether the government would take meaningful action to address the underlying issues. Bleksley points out that if politicians continue to ignore the concerns of the public, the potential for further unrest remains high. He warns that the current situation could be a precursor to more significant conflicts if not addressed properly.

The Future of Policing and Community Relations

As the conversation progresses, Bleksley reflects on the future of policing in the UK. He acknowledges the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining order amid rising tensions. He notes that the police are already stretched thin and that the sheer volume of arrests and investigations resulting from the riots will further strain their resources.

Bleksley suggests that a more conciliatory approach from the police could help to de-escalate tensions. He emphasizes the importance of building trust and rapport with communities, rather than relying solely on enforcement measures. He argues that policing by consent is essential for maintaining social order and that the police must work to regain the trust of the public.

The Broader Implications of Extremism

The discussion also touches on the issue of extremism and the challenges posed by radical ideologies. Bleksley acknowledges that while the police and security services do an admirable job in preventing terrorist attacks, the threat remains. He expresses concern that if another high-profile attack were to occur, it could lead to widespread unrest and violence.

He highlights the need for a comprehensive strategy to address the root causes of extremism, including the importance of community engagement and dialogue. Bleksley argues that without addressing these underlying issues, society risks descending into further conflict.