Graffiti daubed outside Sheffield coach firm depot alleges it has “blood” on its hands following march
The gathering was one of many taking place across the country this morning at coach depots across the UK
Graffiti has been daubed outside a Sheffield coach firm depot alleging it has “blood” on its hands following a march understood to have been organised by protest group Patriot Platform.
The sprayed message in white - along with red paint presumably to represent blood - was left at the gates of Linburg Coach Travel depot in Darnall.
Marchers gathered on Catley Road where the firm is located at around 5.30am today (Sunday).
Since this morning’s march Councillor Mustafa Ahmed has spoken out to confirm protesters went to the company’s gates, where “messages were left on the ground alleging that the coaches were being used to transport refugees”.
The gathering was one of many taking place across the country this morning at coach depots across the UK.
Speaking about this morning’s events, the Burngreave councillor Mustafa Ahmed said: “From what I observed, the march was directed at the coach company, not the local community.
“I want to reassure residents that nobody in the local community was harmed, as far as I have been able to confirm. The police confirmed to me that the protesters had left the area and that there were no ongoing issues.
“There have been rumours circulating about another march taking place. The police have confirmed to me that the marchers have left and I have not received confirmation of any further march.
“Please remain calm and avoid spreading unconfirmed information. I will continue to keep in touch with the police and update residents if I receive any further information.
“Your safety and peace of mind matter. I am here to support and represent everyone in our community.”
A police spokesperson said: “At 5.30am we received reports of a gathering of people on Catley Road, in Sheffield. Officers attended and the group dispersed at around 8.40am.
“After the group dispersed we received a report of criminal damage. It is reported the road was graffitied. This is in the process of being removed.
“Officers have increased patrols in Darnall following a large gathering of people this morning (Sunday).
Neighbourhoods Inspector Andrew Rimmer said: "We understand that this gathering will have caused concern within the local community.
"This was a contained incident involving a nationally coordinated gathering in front of a locked compound and there is no intelligence to suggest there is any wider risk to the local community.
"Officers continue to monitor the location, with additional patrols put in place to provide the local community with reassurance.
"If you see our officers around today, then we encourage you to stop and speak to them about any concerns you may have – they are there to help and support you."
Linburg Coach Travel has been contacted.