Man Arrested for Arson and Violent Behavior After Leeds Riot
Iustin Dobre, 37, has been charged in connection with setting a bus on fire during a riot that ensued after social workers and children were removed from a Roma family.
A man was charged on Saturday with violent disorder and arson following the burning of a bus during a riot in Leeds.
The riot, which included overturning a police car and setting other vehicles ablaze, occurred on Thursday evening after authorities removed social workers and children from a Roma family in Harehills, an area in east Leeds.
Iustin Dobre, 37 years old and residing at Clifton Mount, has been charged with violent disorder and reckless arson endangering life.
West Yorkshire Police (WYP) confirmed that Mr. Dobre is in custody and is set to appear at Leeds Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
Earlier in the day, five more individuals were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and are currently in police custody, as stated by the police on Saturday.
Furthermore, four individuals who were initially arrested in connection with the violent disorder have been released on bail pending further investigation.
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WYP responded to a call at 5 p.m. on Thursday regarding an ongoing incident at Luxor Street, Harehills, where a disturbance involving children and agency workers was taking place.
Due to the escalating situation as more people arrived at the location, police made the decision to remove the children and social worker, leading to “pockets of disorder” as the crowd expanded, the police announced.
The authorities have not disclosed specifics of the child protection matter concerning the Roma family. Leeds City Council confirmed they will conduct an urgent review of the case following a meeting with family representatives and other community leaders on Friday.
In a statement issued on Friday, the council urged all communities to remain calm to prevent a repeat of the previous night’s riot.
“The Romanian and Roma community have made significant contributions to the diversity and richness of Harehills. We aim for this positive work to continue and evolve further to enhance Harehills as a better place to live and work. The events from last night will not benefit our community or the family. It is crucial that we collaborate with authorities to ensure the best outcomes for the community and to make our voices heard at the highest level to avoid similar incidents in the future,” the council emphasized.
“We urge everyone to stay calm, prioritize safety for themselves and their children, and prevent a recurrence of the disturbances from last night. This will benefit the family and the broader community.”
