Idris Elba - Stars Slam Rioters, Call For Calm In London On Twitter

The British capital has been under siege from groups of thugs who have looted stores, set fire to buildings and clashed with riot police in several areas across the city.

The destruction was sparked by the fatal shooting of a 29-year-old man by police officers in Tottenham, North London on Saturday night, and unrest quickly spread across London on Sunday and Monday (07-06Aug11), with police losing control of the streets to hoodlums.

The news has caused outrage around the world, and stars have take to their Twitter.com pages to denounce the violence and pass on their prayers to innocent Londoners caught up in the carnage.

Bedingfield, who hails from Lewisham, one of the area hit by riots on Monday, writes, "I'm born and raised in Lewisham. Message to my neighbours and fam (family): Don't let fear get to you. Love is stronger than hate."

Fellow Londoner Boy George called for stronger action to be taken against the troublemakers: "The youth of Britain are crying out to be contained? Crying out for boundaries? Where are the consequences? Where is the law? Sorry, bring in the military! Now!"

The Wire actor Elba, who was brought up in Hackney, another area hard hit by riots, writes, "I'm in London and this is Bulls**t!! The Protesters and Rioters are not the same people anymore. Stupidity."

Williams, who lived in the U.K. while working last year (10), writes, "Praying for London....London has always been a favorite place that I travel to. Like a 2nd home! Am sad to see all of this!"

Former Spice Girl Melanie Brown, rapper Ms Dynamite and Aussie pop star Holly Valance have also spoken out against the mindless thuggery and violence.