A rally organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson drew tens of thousands to the streets of London on Saturday, culminating in clashes between a segment of participants and police officers separating them from counterprotesters.
The “Unite the Kingdom” march, billed by Robinson as a demonstration for free speech and in defense of British heritage and culture, attracted an estimated crowd of between 110,000 and 150,000 people, according to police estimates.
Clashes and Police Response
The Metropolitan Police reported that several officers were assaulted by individuals at the fringes of the rally.
Officers were punched, kicked, and struck by bottles thrown by some participants. Reinforcements equipped with helmets and riot shields were deployed to support the over 1,000 officers on duty.
In total, 26 police officers were injured, with four suffering serious injuries including broken teeth, a concussion, a possible broken nose, and a spinal injury.
At least 25 people were arrested for offenses including violent disorder, assaults, and criminal damage.
“There is no doubt that many came to exercise their lawful right to protest, but there were many who came intent on violence,” said Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist.
“They confronted officers, engaging in physical and verbal abuse and making a determined effort to breach cordons in place to keep everyone safe.”
Participants in the “Unite the Kingdom” march carried St. George’s flags and Union Jacks, chanting “We want our country back.” Some supporters held signs saying “stop the boats,” “send them home,” and “enough is enough, save our children.”
The rally occurred against a backdrop of heightened debate in the U.K. over migrants crossing the English Channel in overcrowded boats.
A counterprotest, the “March Against Fascism” organized by Stand Up To Racism, drew about 5,000 marchers. Counterprotesters held signs reading “refugees welcome” and “smash the far right,” and shouted “stand up, fight back.”