Representational: Cumbria police have arrested four boys in relation to a hate crime. Img source: www.independent.co.uk
Mar 17, 2024 Story by: Editor
Four teenage boys have been apprehended following the circulation of a distressing video depicting a “racially-aggravated hate incident” against a Black high school student in Carlisle, sparking outrage on social media.
The disturbing footage, which circulated online, purportedly shows the Black student in school uniform being shoved and struck in the chest by a white male near St John Henry Newman Catholic School on Friday.
In the distressing video, the victim is subjected to repeated harassment and physical assault, including being coerced to kiss the white teenager’s shoes.
Another clip, allegedly filmed after the initial incident, shows the white teenager pursuing the victim down the street and delivering two more punches before bystanders intervene.
The videos, shared on Friday, garnered over six million views, igniting a wave of condemnation against the overtly racist behavior.
“Racism in the UK is getting worse everyday. Are Black people not safe in Carlisle?” remarked social media user Olumo of Derby, captioning the video.
Following the video’s viral spread, Cumbria police took action on Saturday morning, initially arresting a teenage boy and acknowledging the “concerns in the community.”
The police urged individuals not to share the video to avoid hindering legal proceedings or identifying any of the involved children.
Later in the day, the police announced the arrest of three additional white teenagers, all residents of Carlisle.
One teenager was arrested on suspicion of “racially-aggravated actual bodily harm,” while the other three were arrested on suspicion of abetting racially-aggravated actual bodily harm.
“These are abhorrent images circulating online that have caused shock and concern in both the community and among officers here at Cumbria Police,” stated Superintendent Sarah Jones.
She further emphasized, “We … can reassure the community this is an incident we are taking very seriously – and we have made four arrests. Our officers have worked through the night and continue to carry out investigations today.” Source: Independent
In response to community concerns, police will be increasing patrols in Carlisle.
