Immigration services advised to bolster security following nationwide unrest
A disturbing list containing the names and addresses of up to 60 immigration solicitors has surfaced on messaging app Telegram, sparking fears of targeted violence. The list, originally shared alongside the phrase “no more immigration”, has since spread further.
The threat has raised concerns both among legal professionals and in the wider community. Earlier this week, the Guardian reported that some of the addresses listed “were later found to be wrong – with one occupied by an elderly woman.”
A “very credible threat”
The Law Society of England and Wales has described the list as a “very credible threat” to its members, warning that there may be “further disturbances” this evening. The Society has contacted the firms it believes are included on the list.
Nick Emmerson, president of the Law Society, told the BBC, “This week has been a stark reminder that the anti-lawyer rhetoric has very real-world consequences for solicitors working tirelessly for their clients, access to justice and the rule of law.”
Lawyers on the list have been advised by police to take precautions, including working from home, not working alone, boarding up office windows, and removing physical files from their offices. One immigration lawyer, who spoke anonymously to the BBC, shared her experience of being repeatedly threatened and warned by colleagues, clients, and members of the public that she was “on a hitlist”.
Government and law enforcement response
Government and law enforcement officials have expressed concern. Speaking on BBC Breakfast, Jim McMahon, the minister for housing, communities and local government, assured the public that the authorities are prepared to take strong action against those who cross the line, whether online or in person.
Police forces across the country are on high alert, with increased resources dedicated to managing potential threats. Prime minister Keir Starmer has held multiple Cobra meetings to coordinate the police response. However, for many law firms and organisations working in immigration services, these actions have not eased their concerns.
Impact on Yorkshire immigration law firms
Yorkshire is home to several prominent immigration law firms and is not immune to these threats.
The region has already seen its share of far-right activity and unrest, targeting mosques, hotels housing asylum seekers, and shops. On Sunday, a Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham had its windows smashed and a fire escape set alight after what was intended to be a peaceful protest. South Yorkshire police assistant chief constable Lindsey Butterfield called it “a dark day” that had been “felt across the county”.
Now, the attention has turned to immigration law, making it a potential flashpoint for violence against those working in the field.
The threat of violence has caused significant concern within the legal community, with many lawyers now questioning their safety and the security of their offices. Law firms and organisations who have received a threat are urged to report it to local police immediately and notify their security team or building manager.
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Image: Canva.
Note: This image is not from the August 2024 protests but is intended to illustrate the above article.
Josie Miller
Josie Miller is Editor of Yorkshire Legal News. She welcomes comments and questions.
