Police and civic leaders have appealed for calm after online speculation about a Norwich murder sparked fears that disorder seen in several cities could spread to Norfolk.
The killing of a man on a housing estate near Grapes Hill comes at a febrile time across the UK with riots in a number of cities in the wake of the killing of three girls in Southport last week.
Police believe much of the wider unrest has been fuelled online, with misinformation spread about various crimes, including the Southport case.
They stress the murder has absolutely no links to Southport or the subsequent disorder.
Several online posts about Friday’s murder in Norwich have discussed it in the context of the wider disorder, with baseless speculation about who might be involved.
The comments have alarmed local councillors and the area’s MP, Clive Lewis, who have called for calm in case a similar scene occurs here.
Mr Lewis said: "I completely understand many people are concerned about what's happening here and what they are seeing in other parts of the country.
"But, right now, there's no reason to believe that that awful incident in our city centre is connected with the disorder in other towns.
READ MORE: Everything we know so far about the Norwich murder
"I'd like us all to support local police as they investigate the incident in Pottergate and to remain calm."
Lucy Galvin, Nelson Ward councillor and leader of the Green group at Norwich City Council, has also shared her assurance.
She said: "This shocking and tragic murder has had an impact across the community, especially on local residents.
"The police investigation is live and we have been assured there is no ongoing danger.
"This area has a strong community spirit, with communal gardens and a residents association, and is usually peaceful.
"People look out for each other here.
"Residents have responded magnificently, including organising a candle-lit vigil."
Police launched a manhunt for the murder suspect shortly after being called to a commotion at the estate during which a man was stabbed to death in front of horrified locals.
Paragon Place has a history of anti-social behaviour, including muggings and drug dealing. However, people living on the estate expressed their shock at the stabbing, which happened in broad daylight.
Some of the speculative online comments have criticised the police for not naming the suspect, suggesting officers have done this because they fear triggering unrest.
One social media commentator posted: “They didn't [name the suspect] in Southport the other day, they kept it all hidden as they were scared it would cause problems."
However, Norfolk Constabulary insist they are not currently naming the suspect because it may harm their investigation.
Chief Superintendent Dave Buckley said that they believe that the victim and suspect are known to one another through illegal drug use.
He added: “Witnesses enquiries are ongoing and it is important that we don’t influence or lead them with the publication of descriptive facts around the suspect.”
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