Epping council considered evacuating homes due to asylum protests

Responding to the BBC’s story, the council spokeswoman said the safety of people living by The Bell Hotel was a top priority.

“Had we been asked to provide temporary accommodation, we would have done so,” she said.

“Thankfully, it did not prove necessary, but we felt it important to make the Home Office aware of the concerns raised with us.”

The emails were obtained via a Freedom of Information request made by the BBC, and also showed how senior staff reacted to Kebatu’s arrest.

They were informed of it in an email, headed “Bell Hotel Incident”, which was sent by directorate specialist Caroline Wiggins at 08:26 BST on 9 July.

“Obviously, I don’t have to say the ramifications of this incident if it is picked up could be very serious,” she wrote.

Small replied: “Oh no! Good that he was apprehended quickly, but will justify and support for the view held by some in the community.”