Racist abuse arrest after flags painted on homes in Basildon

Police have arrested a man on suspicion of using racist language and committing criminal damage after a video of St George’s crosses being painted on homes was widely viewed on social media.

It shows two shirtless men painting red crosses on the white walls of flats above a row of shops in Basildon, Essex.

While a third person films their work and a young girl watches, racial slurs are heard being shouted as a woman wearing a head scarf walks past with a child.

Basildon Council’s Labour leader Gavin Callaghan welcomed the patriotic spirit of those hanging England flags throughout the borough, but warned against criminal damage and said: “Racism has no place in Basildon.”

The row of shops off Whitmore Way includes a convenience store, a pharmacy and food outlets including an Indian restaurant, a Chinese takeaway and a burger bar.

Essex Police confirmed a 33-year-old man, from Basildon, was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence and conspiracy to commit criminal damage.

That followed “multiple reports” from the public about the video.

He has been questioned and released on bail while investigations continue.

Ch Insp Paul Hogben said: “Regardless of anyone’s thoughts or views, causing damage by applying paint to people’s properties is clearly a criminal offence.

“Aside from that simple fact, some of the language directed towards a member of the public in this incident was disgraceful.

“I’m confident the vast majority of people in Essex share the view this language has no place in our county.

“We’ve received numerous reports in relation to this matter and it’s only right that we acted upon them.

“We always work to ensure the safety and security of everyone in Essex.”

Basildon is one of many places around the country to be covered by St George’s flags in recent days, and the flag has also been a common sight at protests outside hotels being used to house asylum seekers.

The trend was acknowledged by council leader Callaghan in a statement, issued on Saturday afternoon.

“This week we’ve seen a large number of England and British flags put up across our borough,” he said.

“I think it’s fantastic to see our flag flying proudly. It shows the pride that so many people feel in our country and our community.

“I have been clear with officers at Basildon Council that we will not be taking down any flags.

“The majority have been fixed to streetlamps, which are Essex County Council’s responsibility, and it will be for them to decide if they stay up or not. Personally, I hope they do.

“But I want to be clear as well: there is a big difference between flying a flag and vandalism. Painting on people’s shops or council buildings isn’t patriotism, it’s criminal damage.

“That isn’t the way to show love for your country. You’re not honouring England by vandalising Basildon. You’re not protecting your child’s future by racially abusing a passer-by.

“Racism has no place in Basildon.”

The statement also cited the video specifically.

Callaghan added: “The video circulating of men painting a St George’s flag on the shops on Whitmore Way wasn’t just about a flag, it was laced with vile racist abuse aimed at a mum and her young child.

“That is totally wrong and must be called out.”