MURDER squad detectives will help throw the "full weight of law" at rioters in Leeds, as roads remain closed in the Harehills area today.
There were shocking scenes last night as a huge crowd gathered on the streets, police cars were attacked, including one being flipped over, and other vehicles were set on fire.
A number of people went live on TikTok, capturing footage of the carnage.
This showed rioters throwing objects around, causing chaos, and a bus was even set on fire.
A ferocious inferno quickly took hold and it even spread to telephone wires above it.
The bus melted into a pile of smouldering rubble.
A large number of public order officers were deployed to the scene and Harehills Lane remains closed this morning.
Police are asking residents to remain calm and have assured they are fully investigating the incidents that have taken place.
In a statement, a spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police, said: "We wish to reassure residents we are responding to the disorder incidents which have taken place, and that appropriate specialist public order resources are attending.
"Officers are also reviewing footage which has circulated on social media showing offending.
"All criminal offences, including damage to vehicles from fire, will be fully investigated by detectives from Leeds CID and the force’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team.
"We want to make it very clear that the full weight of the law will be brought against those responsible.
"Police can also confirm that no-one has so far been reported to have been hurt in the disorder and police are treating the matter as a serious public order incident.
"Residents who have perhaps gathered to observe the incidents are asked to keep away from the disorder while officers manage the incident.
"We would strongly discourage residents from speculating on the cause of this disorder which we believe has been instigated by a criminal minority intent on disrupting community relations.
"Officers are aware of incorrect information circulating on social media suggesting persons potentially responsible.
"Members of the public who have reported incidents so far are thanked for their reports and we want to encourage people to contact us with information and footage of offenders.
"A specialised website will be set up to allow these reports to be made will be set up and further details regarding this on this will follow.
"Finally, we wish to thank members of communities who are working to reassure residents and calm the situation."
Odsal firefighters, along with those from Killingbeck, Garforth, Wakefield, and Hunslet, attended.
In a statement, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "At around 6pm yesterday, we were called upon to assist West Yorkshire Police in response to antisocial activities in the Harehills area of Leeds.
"During the course of the evening, two fires were ignited. After evaluating the situation and considering the potential danger to our fire crews, it was determined that it was not safe to put out the fires.
"We are grateful for the efforts of local community leaders who intervened, enabling us to safely extinguish the fires just after midnight.
"We want to assure the public that we were ready to respond promptly if lives or homes were in danger."
Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, thanked the emergency services last night and warned those "using this to inflame community tensions to think again".
She has released a new statement this morning.
Ms Brabin said: "I am absolutely appalled by the violent and thoughtless actions witnessed in Harehills last night.
"Such criminal behaviour will not be tolerated and I am in touch with West Yorkshire Police for regular updates on the progress of their investigation.
"I would urge everyone to refrain from speculation on social media and if members of the public believe they have footage of criminal behaviour, I would ask for this to be passed on to the police.
"I am relieved that nobody was seriously hurt in this incident - we will provide any support we can to the people of Harehills following the violence perpetrated in their community."
Yesterday, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said she was "appalled at the shocking scenes" that unfolded.
She added: "I am appalled at the shocking scenes and attacks on police vehicles and public transport in Leeds tonight.
"Disorder of this nature has no place in our society. My thanks go to West Yorkshire Police for their response. I am being kept regularly updated."
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