Speaking from a London police command center on Friday, Starmer emphasized the need for continued vigilance, despite a recent lull in the unrest. "We must stay on alert as the weekend approaches because the safety of our communities remains our top priority," said the Labour Party leader.
The government's concerns are heightened by the impending resumption of the football championship this weekend, which they fear could spark a resurgence of violence. The far-right, known for its historical ties to hooligan groups, is believed to be a potential catalyst for further disorder.
The riots erupted last Tuesday following the spread of false information about the identity of a suspect involved in a knife attack in northwest England, which tragically claimed the lives of three young girls. In response, thousands of police officers have been deployed nationwide to quell the violence.
British police reported 483 arrests and over 150 charges related to the riots, with officers conducting a series of "dawn raids" on Friday targeting individuals suspected of participating in the unrest.
The judicial system has already begun issuing dozens of sentences against those involved in the riots, as the government pushes for "swift justice" to deter future disturbances.
Prime Minister Starmer expressed confidence that the rapid response by both police and the courts has been effective in preventing further violence. "I am absolutely convinced that this swift response has had a real impact on the absence of new violence in England since Wednesday," he said.