Hampshire and Isle of Wight’s Police and Crime Commissioner has condemned the violent disorder that broke out in Southampton during a protest over the murder of Henry Nowak, saying the demonstration “got out of hand” and left communities “on the edge”.

Hundreds gathered outside Southampton Central Police Station on Tuesday night following the release of body-worn video footage from the night the 18-year-old University of Southampton student was killed by 23-years-old, Vickrum Digwa.

The protest later moved towards the Digwa family home on St Denys Road and descended into violence, with police reporting bottles being thrown, makeshift weapons being used, and damage being caused to homes and vehicles in the area.

In a statement issued following the protest, PCC Donna Jones said she understood the strength of feeling surrounding the case but warned that criminal behaviour risked undermining calls for fairness and accountability.

She also confirmed that she has commissioned an independent review into the circumstances surrounding Henry’s murder and the wider police response.

Mrs Jones said: “As Police Commissioner my role is to hold the Police to account. I will ensure fairness for everyone, regardless of religion or skin colour.

“I have commissioned an independent review into the events surrounding the murder of Henry Nowak and the wider police response.”

The protest attracted large crowds, including far-right activist Tommy Robinson and actor-turned-campaigner Laurence Fox.

Tensions escalated during the evening, with some individuals involved in confrontations with police and incidents of disorder.

Two people were arrested — one on suspicion of assaulting a police officer and another for possession of a weapon.

Ms Jones said: “Last night’s protest reflected the strength of feeling across the country about fairness and the importance of impartiality.

“It’s important that the public have confidence that everyone matters, and some people’s perceptions that, as a country, we haven’t got this right.”

She added: “The protest last night got out of hand. The scenes represented public disorder and put communities on the edge.”

The commissioner strongly criticised those responsible for violence, including people who threw missiles at police officers, damaged property and committed criminal offences.

“As Police Commissioner I totally condemn the violent actions of those who took it too far. Of those who pelted missiles at the police, who committed criminal damage and broke the law.

“This does not help to deliver change, it doesn’t assist public sentiment in the cause of fairness for all. It simply paints these protestors as criminals, which weakens their voice.”

Concluding her statement, Ms Jones called for unity within communities.

“I understand tensions in communities, but we must stop separating everybody into different groups. We must achieve fairness for all.”