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Home Folkestone News Article
Kent Police has responded after officers were filmed carrying an asylum seeker back into Napier Barracks.
A video has circulated online showing two officers carrying a man through the gates of the premises in Folkestone today.
It is understood that the man had scaled the fence of the compound in an attempt to leave, before demanding a transfer from the controversial holding facility.
After he was returned to the site, he then reportedly did the same thing again, and then a third time during which he reportedly assaulted a police officer.
The force said that officers had to use "reasonable force" to return the man to the barracks as he had breached Covid guidelines by trying to leave.
A Kent Police spokesperson said: "Patrols were in the area of Napier Barracks during this morning when they were made aware of a reported Covid breach.
"Officers attended and engaged with a man to explain and encourage him to follow government regulations and return to the site.
"Our officers will always ensure that people are aware of the current guidance and the need to stay safe."
"He refused and officers were required to use reasonable force to physically return him safely back inside and no enforcement action was taken.
"The same male was then later seen again outside of the barracks and when officers engaged with him, he assaulted an officer and was arrested and taken into custody.
"Our officers will always engage with the public and ensure that people are aware of the current guidance and the need to stay safe."
This is the latest controversy surrounding the barracks, which remain under a heavy police presence since a disturbance last week.
It came on the same day as calls were made for the facility to be “evacuated immediately” amid ongoing concerns over a coronavirus outbreak.
Speaking to the Commons Home Affairs Committee today, Dr Jill O’Leary, the leading GP for charity the Helen Bamber Foundation’s medical advisory service, said: “As we speak today there are still many people who have tested positive for Covid-19 who are sharing close quarters with people who are not currently unwell with Covid.”
She added: “The barracks needs to be evacuated immediately for the safety of all concerned.”
The Home Office – which turned to using the Ministry of Defence-owned site last year to house asylum seekers – told the committee the accommodation is Covid-secure.
