Far-right activists gathered in two disruptive demonstrations in Dover and Portsmouth over the weekend, attempting to obstruct asylum seekers arriving on small boats from France. Many wore all black and balaclavas, according to reports from the Observer.
Organiser with ties to Tommy Robinson
The action was seemingly organised by Daniel Thomas, an agitator better known as Danny Tommo, who has close ties with the far-right extremist Tommy Robinson. Thomas was recorded on the ground saying Portsmouth was now 'ground zero' for small boat crossings, and has threatened further action.
Disruptive tactics and police response
The protests, described as 'thuggish' by observers, aimed to physically block the arrival of asylum seekers. The demonstrations occurred in two separate locations, highlighting the coordinated nature of the far-right mobilisation. Police were present at both sites, though no arrests have been reported in the initial coverage.
Broader context and official reaction
The Home Office has not yet issued a formal statement regarding the weekend's events. However, the protests come amid ongoing political debate over immigration and asylum policy, with small boat crossings remaining a contentious issue. Tommy Robinson, to whom Thomas has close ties, has been a prominent figure in far-right activism in the UK.
The Observer's political correspondent Ben Quinn provided analysis of the situation, as reported by Lucy Hough. The demonstrations in Dover and Portsmouth represent a significant escalation in far-right activity targeting asylum seekers, with organisers vowing further actions in the future.
