Serious public disorder was reported in several parts of the UK on Thursday evening after protests over migration and government housing arrangements escalated into violent incidents, leaving dozens of buildings damaged and prompting a large-scale police response.

According to preliminary reports from local authorities and emergency services, fires were reported at or near more than 40 hotels believed to be used for temporary migrant accommodation. Incidents were recorded in multiple locations, including parts of London, the Midlands and Northern Ireland, as demonstrations rapidly spread during the early evening.

Police said that crowds began gathering shortly after 5.00 p.m., with some groups calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and demanding tougher action on illegal immigration and asylum enforcement. In several areas, masked individuals were seen breaking away from protest groups and targeting properties, leading to outbreaks of arson and vandalism.

By early evening, police forces confirmed that specialist public order units had been deployed to assist local officers. Fire and rescue services were also placed under significant pressure as multiple blazes were reported within a short period of time. Authorities stressed that their priority was protecting residents, staff and nearby communities.

A senior police spokesperson said that investigations are under way and warned that anyone involved in setting fires or attacking buildings could face lengthy prison sentences if convicted.

The unrest comes amid growing political debate over the government’s strategy for housing asylum seekers and managing migration. Ministers have previously defended the use of hotels as a temporary measure, while acknowledging that long-term accommodation and faster processing of asylum claims remain key challenges.

Opposition parties and community leaders have condemned the violence, urging people to express political views peacefully and warning that attacks on property and emergency services put lives at risk.

Downing Street has not yet issued a detailed statement on the incidents, but government sources said the Prime Minister is being kept fully briefed and that discussions with police leaders and local authorities are ongoing.