Probe into Plot Night violence is ruled out

The news came as officers confirmed no-one would be likely to face charges over the violent outbursts in which cars were burned, buses stoned and a fire engine attacked.

The Police Complaints Authority - which received a written request and 130-strong petition from residents - said it would not oversee an investigation into the flare-up which occurred in the Manchester Road and Marshfields areas.

Bradford's Odsal police division said it would not carry out its own probe into officers' behaviour.

A written complaint had been sent to the PCA alleging that chief officers were reluctant to act against gangs.

The group's spokesman, Andrew Hall, claimed several vanloads of officers sat idle in Rooley Lane while rioters caused havoc nearby.

Today Insp Gary Bates, from Odsal police, said an internal investigation into the operation would not take place.

He added: "Nine people were arrested and have not been charged."

A lack of evidence meant that a case would be impossible to prove in a court, said Insp Bates. He said: "Identification was a big issue here. It was dark, smoky and many of those involved had their faces covered.

"We have had a degree of support from the community and a lot of help from youth workers.

"We would thank them for this response but unfortunately there is still not enough evidence."

The operation was supported by Odsal Chief Supt Simon Willsher who said officers had been deployed "positively and effectively". This was backed by Odsal Councillor (Lab) David Green who said people in the area generally felt officers had dealt with the situation effectively.

A PCA spokesman said, after receiving the complaint and investigating it had the power to organise an investigation.

A spokesman said it had ruled against this and passed the issue back to Bradford police.

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