Photo by Trevino, some rights reserved
Looting, fires, and mass rioting swept across the UK today as the Gamu X Factor axe incident escalated out of control, sources in every major city have reported.
All semblance of law and order in Britain was abandoned early on Wednesday as it became clear X Factor judge Cheryl Cole was refusing to budge on her decision to ditch contestant Gamu Nhengu.
Citizens from every corner of the country swarmed to the capital London in peaceful protest after the Zimbabwe-born singer was axed from the popular TV show at the weekend.
But after sections of the million-plus crowd threatened to storm the Houses of Parliament, riot police were forced to open fire on the protesters sparking outbreaks of violence in every major city.
“It is with great regret that I have to inform you all that the United Kingdom is in X Factor lockdown,” David Cameron told the nation via an appeal broadcast on all TV channels.
“We must stay calm,” said a visibly shaken Cameron. “I would urge all citizens of Britain to stay indoors until further notice. We are doing all we can to resolve this situation.”
The coalition government has been broadcasting Strictly Come Dancing on a 24-hour loop in a bid to quell the unrest while the civil emergency Cobra committee meets with X Factor judges Cheryl Cole, Louis Walsh and Simon Cowell to formulate a rescue plan.
Thousands gathered in the streets surrounding 10 Downing Street awaiting the emergence of the Cabinet and X Factor judging panel.
Jean White, a mum of two, from Charing Cross said: “As a nation we’ve weathered the recession, the war in Iraq, the conflict in Afghanistan and the constant threat of terrorist attack, but this was the straw that broke the camel’s back.
“The media just seem to be trying to push this important issue under the carpet, particularly the tabloids, which is why the people have been forced to take action. If Simon can’t talk sense into Cheryl, well, I fear the worst.”
More to follow as it hits The News Grind newsdesk …
(photo by Trevino, some rights reserved)
