Central London witnessed violent clashes on Saturday as over one lakh people gathered for a massive anti-immigration protest led by far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Police reported facing “kicks and punches,” as well as bottles, flares, and projectiles being hurled at officers, resulting in at least 25 arrests.
Police Face Violence Amid Record Turnout
The Metropolitan Police estimated that around 1,10,000 to 1,50,000 people attended the rally, with about 5,000 counter-protesters mobilised by Stand Up to Racism. Nearly 1,000 officers were deployed to maintain order and separate the rival groups.
“They were assaulted with kicks and punches. Bottles, flares and other projectiles were thrown,” the force said, calling the violence “unacceptable.”
Police confirmed that nine arrests were made initially, but many more participants have been identified for possible charges.
Tommy Robinson Calls for ‘Cultural Revolution’
The protest — dubbed “Unite the Kingdom” — was led by Robinson (real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon), who has multiple convictions but retains a massive online following. He described the rally as the country’s “biggest free speech festival.”
“The silent majority will be silent no longer. Today is the spark of a cultural revolution,” Robinson told the crowd.
Demonstrators carrying English and British flags marched across Westminster Bridge before gathering near Downing Street. Far-right figures from Europe and North America, including French politician Eric Zemmour and Germany’s Petr Bystron (AfD), addressed the crowd.
Billionaire Elon Musk joined via video-link, warning:
“Whether you choose violence or not, violence is coming to you. You either fight back or you die.”
Placards at the rally carried “Stop the Boats” slogans and featured images of Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was killed earlier this week.
Anti-Racism Groups Stage Counter-Protest
Around 5,000 people joined the counter-demonstration to oppose what they called “racist fearmongering.” Labour MP Diane Abbott accused Robinson of spreading “dangerous lies” and urged solidarity with asylum seekers.
“We need to show that we are united,” Abbott said in her speech.
Growing Anti-Immigration Sentiment in UK Politics
The rally comes amid rising anti-immigration sentiment in the UK, with Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party gaining ground in recent polls. Protests against asylum-seeker hotels have intensified, and immigration has become a central flashpoint in public debate.
Many participants expressed frustration over record migration levels.
“It’s an invasion. They don’t understand we want our country back,” said Ritchie, a 28-year-old marcher.
Philip Dodge, a retired baker from Sheffield, voiced concerns about restrictions on free speech:
“I never thought I’d see this in this country — people being arrested just for talking about immigration or gender issues.”
