Dorset Police say they will deal “swiftly and robustly” with anyone intent on being involved in criminality at protests in Bournemouth this weekend.
Specially trained public order officers will be on duty for the protests which are due to take place in the town centre on Sunday.
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan, pictured, said people will see a heightened police presence.
While his officers will enable safe and lawful protests, any offenders will be arrested and brought before the courts with the force, in conjunction with the Crown Prosecution Service, seeking the highest level of sentence.
ACC Callaghan said: “We understand that members of the public may be feeling concerned about the planned protest activity in Bournemouth following the unacceptable violence that has been seen elsewhere across the country.
“I would like to reassure the public that we have been moving at pace to ensure we have all available resources in place to respond to any reports of disorder.
“This has included drafting in resources from other forces and these dedicated and specially trained public order officers will be on duty working tirelessly to ensure there is no significant disruption to the public.
“Anyone who will be in Bournemouth town centre on Sunday can expect to see a heightened police presence.
“We are there to protect you and to enable peaceful protests to take place.
“We also have officers and staff who will be answering the usual calls from the public, responding to incidents and investigating offences.
“Our local neighbourhood policing teams, alongside staff from BCP Council, have this week been liaising with the business community in the town and key community groups to listen to concerns and reassure them of our robust policing plans.
“This will continue as we head toward the weekend.
“While we will enable safe and lawful protests, I want to make it absolutely clear that anyone intent on being involved in criminality on our streets will be dealt with swiftly and robustly.
“Offenders will be arrested and brought before the courts, and in conjunction with the Crown Prosecution Service, we will seek the highest level of sentence.
“There is simply no place for racism, hatred or violence in Dorset and we will do all we can, while working with our partner agencies, to tackle any disorder.”
Cllr Millie Earl, Leader of BCP Council said: “I want to reassure all residents that BCP Council is ready and prepared for all eventualities ahead of the planned protest on Sunday.
“The safety of our residents remains our priority.
“In readiness for the event, we are continuing to work closely with Dorset Police and other partners and have put in place additional security measures which include installing CCTV cameras in key areas, providing additional Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS) patrols and taking precautionary action to make sure any building sites in the area are safe.
“Additionally, we remain in regular dialogue with community and faith leaders, businesses and resident groups to provide reassurance and support.”