Further arrests have been made in Thetford, Norfolk, as disorder linked to anti-immigration protests persisted for a third consecutive night. On Thursday evening, Norfolk Police arrested two men in their 40s, bringing the total number of arrests in connection with the unrest to five. One of the new arrests was on suspicion of racial hatred offenses committed on Wednesday, while the other was for being drunk and disorderly and failing to provide identification.

Policing powers were intensified in the market town on Thursday following significant aggression directed at officers earlier in the week, including a female officer who sustained a serious bite. On Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, crowds attempted to storm homes believed to be housing asylum seekers. Police confirmed that on some occasions, individuals were escorted from properties for their safety.

Norfolk's chief constable, Paul Sanford, stated that the targeted addresses were indeed believed by protesters to house asylum seekers. He explained that on a couple of occasions, police had to escort residents away from these properties to ensure their safety. Heavy police presence was visible in the Canterbury Way residential area on Thursday night, with images showing officers making an arrest.

A Home Office spokesperson condemned the behavior, vowing that "anyone taking part in this criminal activity will face the full force of the law." To manage the situation, Norfolk Police implemented public safety measures, including the power to demand the removal of face coverings under threat of arrest and the authority to direct individuals suspected of anti-social behavior to leave the area.

These measures were effective from Thursday evening until Friday morning. Chief Constable Sanford defended the actions of officers, refuting any suggestions of excessive force. The previous night, Wednesday, saw two police officers injured during the second night of disorder. A crowd estimated at over 200 people gathered on Clover Way, throwing eggs and rocks at houses and chanting anti-immigration slogans.

Police reported that members of the crowd became physically aggressive towards officers, with one male officer being struck by a rock and a female officer suffering a serious bite that broke the skin. Assistant Chief Constable Julie Dean emphasized the force's commitment to preventing violence, stating, "We will not stand by and allow violence to take place, whether that is directed towards members of the public, local residents or police officers carrying out their duties."

The Home Office acknowledged the right to protest but drew a firm line at violence. A spokesperson stated, "The right to protest is fundamental to our democracy and the concerns of communities are central to our immigration reforms. However violence and disorder are never acceptable."

The ongoing unrest highlights tensions surrounding immigration and asylum seekers in the region, prompting a significant police response and the implementation of special measures to restore public order and safety in Thetford.