POLICE are looking to identify five men which they would like to speak to in connection with the disorder witnessed at the Newcastle anti-racism protest last weekend.

Northumbria Police yesterday released pictures of the individuals they are looking to trace.

Officers are currently carrying out their investigation – named Operation Travis – following the unacceptable behaviour from a small number of people during protest activity on Saturday.

This included five dawn arrests yesterday (18 June) across Newcastle and Gateshead in connection with violent disorder. The men, aged 39, 42, 44, 51 and 55, were all arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and are currently in police custody.

Assistant Chief Constable Scott Hall said: “The violent disorder we saw on Saturday was completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“We have made it abundantly clear that anyone found to have been involved will be brought to justice.

“Since the weekend, a dedicated team have been working to identify those believed to have been involved, which has today resulted in a number of suspects being arrested.

“However, this activity is still very much ongoing – and we expect to be making more arrests in the very near future.

“My message to anyone who was involved in the disorder is a simple one – come forward and hand yourself in to police.”

Assistant Chief Constable Hall added: “The right to lawful protest is a key part of any democracy which the police uphold and facilitate.

“However, we will not accept people using them as a means to commit crime. At any future protest we will have officers on the ground looking to identify anyone involved in last week’s disorder.”

On the day, 14 people were arrested, mainly on suspicion of public order related offences. They have since been released under investigation.

As part of Operation Travis – officers are trawling through hours of CCTV and bodyworn camera footage.

They are now also appealing for anyone who may have images or footage from the day to get in touch.

Assistant Chief Constable Hall said: “There is very little that goes on these days which isn’t captured on camera. I would urge anyone with footage or images of the disorder, or of those involved, to share this with us as it may prove vital in helping to identify those responsible.”

If you do have any footage or images, please share this through the UK Policing Major Incident Public Portal reporting site – visit www.mipp.police.uk and click on the Northumbria Police badge.

If you are pictured, or recognise anyone who is, please contact police by calling 101 quoting incident log 238 130620.

Alternatively, information can also be passed, anonymously, via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.