Clashes in Virginia rock the US

The riots in Charlottesville, Virginia, are a sign that beneath America's peaceful, prosperous life, racial conflict still simmers.

Riots broke out in Charlottesville, Virginia, USA on August 12 after white nationalists clashed with anti-racism groups, killing three people and injuring dozens. The incident has shaken the US, especially in the context of the fear of terrorism still existing.

Protesters against the "Unite the Right" march carry banners against white supremacy. (Photo: Reuters)

The city council immediately decided to empower the police chief to declare a curfew. Meanwhile, the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) also opened a civil investigation to clarify the incident.

In a non-binding vote on August 13, the Charlottesville City Council unanimously authorized Police Chief Al Thomas to regulate and restrict the movement of people and vehicles on roads, prohibiting any form of crowd gathering in public places.

Charlottesville Mayor Mike Signer said in a statement that the City Council made the decision after careful consideration of the situation. This demonstrates confidence in the police chief and the ability of law enforcement in the city.

Earlier, on August 12, thousands of people participating in a march called “Unite the Right” at Emancipation Park organized by white nationalists and other right-wing groups clashed with protesters.

Police used tear gas to disperse protesters and arrested several people after declaring the gathering illegal.

The incident became more serious after a gray car drove at high speed straight into the crowd of marchers.

Police later found the car involved in the accident and arrested the driver on charges of attempted murder.

Speaking at a news conference, Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe urged people to stop the violence and go home. The city government also declared a state of emergency as police tried to disperse a crowd of hundreds gathered outside the city's college.

Attorney General Jeff Sessions said the deadly violence in Charlottesville violated American law and justice.

He discussed with FBI Agent Christopher Wray and FBI agents at the scene as well as Virginia law enforcement officials, then decided to open an investigation.

On the same day, US President Donald Trump criticized the incident, which he said was "an outrageous display of hatred, bigotry and violence from many sides," affirming that he was closely monitoring the situation in Charlottesville. He also called on the American people to unite regardless of skin color, creed, religion or political party.

The riots in Charlottesville, USA are a sign that, beneath the peaceful and prosperous life of this country, there is still a simmering fierce conflict between ethnic groups that can flare up into a major incident at any opportunity./.