Twickenham: Group 'tried to set fire to pub's Union Jack' - 'inciting racial hatred' arrests

Police arrested three teenagers after reports of a group trying to set fire to a pub's Union Flag.

It is alleged that the flag - also known as a Union Jack - was grabbed from outside The Fox Pub in Twickenham at just after 6pm on Monday (October 23).

Two men aged 18 and a 17-year-old were held at the scene in Twickenham on suspicion of racially aggravated criminal damage and inciting racial hatred.

Police say it is alleged that the suspects "made reference to the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza".

A spokesperson for The Fox said: “We would like to reassure our customers that safety of our customers is our number one priority and our CCTV has been handed over to the police.”

A Met Police spokeswoman said: “At 6.09pm on Monday October 23 police were called to Church Street, Twickenham, following reports of a group trying to remove and set fire to Union flags.

"Two men, aged 18 and a 17-year-old boy, were arrested at the scene on suspicion of racially aggravated criminal damage and inciting racial hatred.

"It is alleged that the suspects made reference to the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza."

She added: "They were taken into custody and were later bailed to return on a date in mid-November pending further enquiries."

Richmond Council leader Gareth Roberts said: "Hate has no place in our society.

"I'd also like to urge people to report hate crime when they witness it. Silence hides hate, so no matter how small or trivial you think an incident might be, it is important it is acknowledged and reported.

"Reporting also means that you will get access to support and advice to help you feel safe again."