Malaysia, other countries issue safety warnings to citizens in UK following riots

PETALING JAYA: Several other countries have joined Malaysia in issuing warnings to their citizens in the United Kingdom following widespread riots.

Among the countries which have sent out alerts are Australia, Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, India and Nigeria.

The Singapore High Commission in London also said on Aug 4 that it is monitoring the situation in the United Kingdom.

“Singaporeans residing in or travelling to the United Kingdom are urged to stay vigilant and avoid the affected areas where possible,” it said on X, formerly Twitter.

The High Commission of India in London said it is “closely monitoring” the situation and advised visitors from India to “stay vigilant and exercise due caution while travelling in the UK”.

On Tuesday (Aug 6), Australia also advised its travellers to “avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the potential for disruption and violence” and urged them to “monitor the media for information and updates”.

Violent riots have broken out in several towns and cities across the United Kingdom following the stabbing deaths of three girls during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport on July 29.

The riots by far-right protesters have broken out following misinformation that the alleged perpetrator was a Muslim immigrant.

So far, almost 400 people have been arrested over the riots.

On Sunday, Wisma Putra has urged Malaysians residing in the United Kingdom or travelling to the country to stay away from areas affected by protests over the stabbing incident in Southport.

It also urged Malaysians to remain vigilant and follow the latest updates as well as guidance from local authorities.

“Malaysians who have not yet registered with the Malaysian High Commission in London are strongly encouraged to do so immediately to ensure they receive timely information and assistance,” said the Foreign Ministry in a statement on Sunday.