Members of the Southampton Patriots spent Sunday scrubbing graffiti from the Mountbatten pub in Southampton and Sainsbury’s in Lordshill, distancing themselves from recent acts of vandalism.
The group said they found and removed slogans such as “STOP THE BOATS,” “SAVE R KIDS,” and “THIS IS OUR LAND,” insisting they do not want their name linked with criminal damage. Its also been reported a flare was thrown at an open window at the Highfield House Asylum hotel at 2am on Sunday morning.
The group believe all the incidents could be intended to discredit them and remove their right to protest. A spokesperson said, “We removed the graffiti because we want to make it clear that we are not involved in or supportive of vandalism. Our aim is to have peaceful demonstrations and open discussion, not to deface property.”
The Patriots also condemned reports that a flare was thrown at the Highfield House Hotel, which is currently housing asylum seekers. “We strongly condemn any acts of violence or intimidation,” the group said, adding that their opposition to housing undocumented asylum seekers in local hotels should be expressed through lawful and peaceful means.
The incidents come amid heightened tensions in Southampton over the government’s policy of placing asylum seekers in hotels in residential areas, a move that continues to spark debate among local residents. Its reported that the recent surge in channel crossings ahas meant more undocumented Asylum seekers being housed in Southampton.
