Protests We fear for our lives, say Epping asylum seekers

Asylum seekers at the Essex hotel that has become a target of protests and far-right incitement say they are now in fear for their lives.

- Ben Quinn Diane Taylor

Men living in the Bell near Epping said they had been attacked on the streets and in some cases needed medical treatment afterward.

They had felt safe before the protests, according to another asylum seeker, who was filmed being chased down the street by men involved in the demonstrations.

Speaking near the hotel, an asylum seeker who had fled war in his home country of Yemen said that injuries on his face had been caused when six men attacked him when he was out for a walk. "They were in two cars and they were ready. They were waiting for us," said Nabil. As he spoke, abuse was shouted from a passing car.

Jibreel, a Kuwaiti friend who was with Nabil, said those in the hotel were feeling under pressure and were being confined to their rooms during the protests, which are taking place during the week and at the weekend.

He added: "It's not safe for us here and we know this. We're here in the UK for different reasons - in my case it's because of politics and persecution in my home - but we just want to be able to live, to study and do something here."