HAREHILLS, LEEDS – In a scene reminiscent of an apocalyptic movie, the Leeds suburb of Harehills has been rocked by a series of violent disturbances, leaving the local community in a shambles. What started as a riot involving the Roma community quickly escalated into an unprecedented act of mindless self-destruction.

By Our Crime Editor: Rob Banks

The chaos erupted at around 17:00 BST on Thursday when social workers faced hostility while handling a child protection issue. Police were called to the scene and were soon embroiled in the violence. As Assistant Chief Constable Ron Away explained, officers were attacked while helping social care staff to safety, leading to widespread vandalism.

A police car was flipped over, and a bus was set alight, with 37-year-old yobbo, Iustin Dobre later being charged with violent disorder and arson reckless as to endanger life.

However, the protest didn’t stop there. With much of the local infrastructure already damaged, the Roma community, in a display of unfathomable determination, turned their rage towards their own homes.

Reports emerged of residents using bulldozers to demolish their houses, a move that has baffled authorities and onlookers alike. “We have to continue our protest,” one resident explained. “When there was nothing left in the streets, we destroy ourselves. Clever huh!”

Leeds Disunited

Police have arrested five more individuals on suspicion of violent disorder, and four previously detained suspects have been bailed pending further investigation.

The situation in Harehills remains tense, with West Yorkshire Police maintaining an increased presence in the area. The once vibrant community now faces the daunting task of rebuilding from the ashes, both literally and figuratively. Whether the dramatic self-destruction will yield any positive outcomes or simply add to the community’s woes remains to be seen

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