Police woman punched in head as 15 arrested during violent clashes in West Sussex

A woman police officer was punched in the head and 15 people were arrested during violent clashes over the weekend.

The disorder broke out in Shoreham, West Sussex, at around 10.30pm on Saturday.

Police were called to the town centre to reports of a young man damaging a car.

Tensions swiftly escalated following their arrival at the scene.

When two officers tried to arrest the suspect they were pushed to the floor and assaulted by a large group of youths, Sussex Police said on Sunday.

More police units were deployed to the area and 15 people were arrested for offences including assaulting an emergency worker and violent disorder.

All remain in police custody, with 13 of those arrested aged between 14 and 17.

Chief Inspector Nick Bowman said: “This behaviour, and the violence towards police officers going about their duty, is totally unacceptable and we are appealing for any independent witnesses to come forward.

“Fortunately, our officers did not suffer any serious injuries in the incident, but we will not tolerate attacks such as this on emergency workers.

“Everyone, including parents and guardians, has a responsibility to ensure children and young people are following the current guidelines, to prevent the spread of coronavirus.”

A dispersal order for Shoreham town centre has been issued, to run until midnight on Monday.

This will allow officers to move along large groups of people to prevent any further disorder in this area, he said.

Mr Bowman added: “We are keen to hear from anyone who saw the incident, in particular anyone who may have any video footage on their mobile phones.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police online or by calling 101 quoting reference number 1690 of 11/07.