More Arrests Made After Barracks Fire While Residents Face ‘Freezing’ Conditions

More arrests have been made following a suspected arson attack at Napier Barracks in Kent.  

A fire broke out at the military site on Friday afternoon, where about 400 asylum seekers have been living. 

The Home Office, which loaned the site from the Ministry of Defence (MOD) as it struggled to house asylum seekers last year, insists the barracks is “safe and secure” despite an outbreak of COVID-19. 

Recently at least 120 residents reportedly tested positive for the virus. 

A total of 14 people have now been arrested following the fire and one man has been charged with assault by beating, using or threatening unlawful violence and criminal damage, police have said. 

Despite damage to property they say they are not treating the event as a riot. 

On Sunday, the Home Office faced allegations from migrant charity Care4Calais that residents were living in “freezing cold” conditions. 

A spokesperson said: “It’s midwinter and we have been told over 100 people are sick with COVID, and there is no doctor on site.

“It is essential that steps are taken to urgently review management of the site and provide appropriate care for those who are trapped inside in terrible conditions.” 

A Home Office spokesperson said: “The Home Office is meeting all its statutory duties to accommodate asylum seekers.

“The Napier Barracks site is safe and secure and we are working with our provider to repair the damage that has been done.” 

Cover Image: A burnt-out accommodation block at Napier Barracks in Folkestone, Kent, following a fire at the site (Pictures: PA).