Passer-by joins in attack on asylum seekers


Passer-by joins in attack on asylum seekers

Written by: Arun Kundnani


Two asylum-seeking brothers in their early 30s were left with serious injuries at the weekend after confronting a group of youths harassing them outside their home.

About ten youths had gathered outside the asylum seekers’ home in Hemlington, Middlesbrough, on the evening of Saturday 1 February – throwing snowballs at the house. After a while, the brothers came out of the house and moved the group round the corner. The two asylum seekers were then assaulted and threatened with a bottle and a knife. One suffered a chest wound while the other had injuries to his back and left arm.

A passing driver stopped at the scene when he saw the incident and approached one of the brothers who was on the ground. But rather than helping him, the driver continued the attack by punching him in the face while he lay on the street.

Both brothers were taken to Middlesbrough General Hospital where they remain in a stable condition. Two fourteen-year-olds have been arrested and released on bail while inquiries continue.

Related links

North East Campaign For Asylum Rights


The Institute of Race Relations is precluded from expressing a corporate view: any opinions expressed are therefore those of the authors.

2 thoughts on “Passer-by joins in attack on asylum seekers

  1. I live in Hemlington and heard about this attack from friends. I believe this attack was un called for, but why accomadate asylum seekers in areas where you know are rough and them getting attacked is a possibility?

  2. I live in Hemlington and heard about this attack from friends. I believe this attack was un called for, but why accomadate asylum seekers in areas where you know are rough and them getting attacked is a possibility?

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