UK PM promises a "standing army" of officers to combat riots

United Kingdom (UK) Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Monday that a "standing army" of specialist police officers would be established to deal with riots that have rocked the country following deadly stabbings in Southport, northwest England.

Starmer made the announcement after an emergency meeting with ministers and top law enforcement officials after far-right protesters violently clashed with police officers and counter-protesters in many cities and towns of the country in the past week.

In the past week, far-right protesters were seen throwing projectiles, attacking officers, looting stores and storming hotels housing asylum seekers in major cities like London, Manchester, Liverpool, Bristol, Leeds, Nottingham and Sunderland, as well as in towns like Middlesbrough, Bolton and Rotherham.

Police have arrested 378 people since the start of the disorder, UK's National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) said on Monday.

NPCC Chair Gavin Stephens said he expects the number to rise each day as police forces continue to identify those involved and continue to apprehend those responsible.

"Violent disorder is a serious offence which often comes with a lengthy jail term," said Stephens.

Following the emergency meeting, Starmer said the government will "ramp up criminal justice" to ensure that "sanctions are swift."