BBC’s Sima Kotecha suffers racial abuse prior to live broadcast in Leicester

BBC’s Sima Kotecha has suffered racial abuse ahead of a live broadcast on a street in Leicester.

Kotecha was due to interview members of the public in Leicester city centre on Sunday night following the Prime Minister’s update on the lockdown measures. However, this was cancelled after the crew and guests were shouted racist slurs by a man.

Kotecha tweeted a short while after. She said, “Apologies to our guests who we had to send home without putting on air after myself and team were subjected to racist and abusive behaviour – sad obstruction of reporting of a national crisis. Yes I’m furious.

“Apologies – but man shouting terrible things at me has ruined it for everyone. I’m afraid not going to make it on the special programme.”

The chief constable of Leicestershire police, Simon Cole, responded to Kotecha’s tweet saying, “Sorry to hear about this. I’ve spoken to our control room. Has it been reported? If not then please call 101 or online.”

In a statement, the BBC said, “While preparing to broadcast, our reporter, her production team and guests were subjected to racist and abusive behaviour. We are appalled by what happened and will be reporting the incident to the police. We will not tolerate racism or abuse of our staff.”

Kotecha has given a statement to the police and the investigation continues.