By: Engineer Bakht Said Yousafzai
A tense scene unfolded in Leeds city centre this afternoon as a police van was set on fire during a pro-Palestine protest, prompting a swift and heavy emergency response. The incident took place around 2:33pm on Saturday along Calverley Street, which connects The Headrow and Great George Street, one of the busiest routes in the city. Within minutes, thick smoke billowed into the air as passers-by captured dramatic footage of the burning vehicle, while police moved quickly to secure the area.
West Yorkshire Police confirmed that one man, who was reportedly seen standing on top of the burning van, was arrested on suspicion of arson. Thankfully, no injuries were reported in connection with the incident, though the blaze caused significant disruption in the city centre and forced the temporary closure of surrounding roads. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as officers rushed to contain the fire and manage the large crowd gathered nearby.
More than 20 police officers and several vans were deployed to the scene, as emergency services worked to restore order and ensure public safety. Firefighters extinguished the flames shortly after, leaving behind a charred shell of the vehicle surrounded by debris. The cause of the fire is under investigation, and authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation while inquiries continue.
The protest, part of a nationwide series of pro-Palestine demonstrations, had drawn a significant turnout earlier in the day. However, the atmosphere reportedly turned tense before the van was set alight. Police said they remain committed to facilitating peaceful protest while taking firm action against any criminal behaviour. Calverley Street remained cordoned off for several hours as officers conducted forensic examinations and cleared the area. The investigation into the arson attack is ongoing.
