A 35-year-old man has been arrested at Manchester Airport shortly after arriving on a flight from Alicante, Spain, following his alleged involvement in a violent disorder that occurred in Southport last year. The incident, which has drawn attention and led to a series of arrests, saw significant chaos in the seaside town linked to a tragic event involving the deaths of three schoolgirls.
The arrest took place on Monday, 24 March, as detectives from Merseyside Police anticipated the flight's arrival in order to detain the suspect. Footage from the scene captured the moment police officers boarded the plane and escorted the man away, amidst instructions for passengers to remain seated. Witnesses reported seeing four officers aboard the flight, which had just landed, as they quickly moved to detain the individual. Following his removal, the man was taken to awaiting police vehicles on the runway, and has since been bailed with conditions pending further inquiries.
According to a statement issued by Merseyside Police, the arrested man is suspected of having "thrown missiles at officers" during the disturbances in Southport that erupted after the stabbing deaths of three schoolgirls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class. Detectives are continuing their investigation into the events surrounding the riots, which have led to a total of 185 arrests and the charging of 146 individuals in connection with the violence.
Detective Inspector Paula Jones commented on the ongoing efforts, stating, “The disgusting scenes witnessed will not be tolerated and we advise anyone else who took part in the disorder to do the right thing and hand themselves in.” Her remarks underscore the police's commitment to addressing the community unrest that has significantly impacted the Merseyside area.
As part of the broader legal proceedings, two men were sentenced on the day prior to the arrest for their involvement in the Southport riots last summer. Thomas Birchmore, 31, was sentenced to two years for kicking a police vehicle, while Gavin O’Connor, 46, received a sentence of two years and eight months for his actions, which included throwing missiles at police. Furthermore, another individual, Ryan Williams, 30, was jailed for one year and ten months after pleading guilty for similar violent conduct.
Merseyside Police have reported that a total of 237 years of imprisonment has been handed down to those convicted in connection to the disorder, highlighting the seriousness with which authorities are treating these incidents. The police continue to encourage others who engaged in the disruptive activities to come forward as investigations progress.
Source: Noah Wire Services