Nigel Farage has shared that his residence was targeted with a firebomb, highlighting the significant risks associated with his role. The leader of Reform UK disclosed that the incident occurred last year when a petrol bomb was thrown through his letterbox, with no perpetrators yet identified. Farage mentioned receiving financial support, reportedly around £5 million, from Christopher Harborne, a billionaire based in Thailand, to cover his security expenses.
During an interview with The Telegraph, Farage revealed that he was not present at home when the arson attempt took place. Upon his return, he discovered the damage caused by the attack, describing it as a deliberate act of arson. He suspected that the culprits were interrupted during the assault.
Farage, who faced instances of having milkshakes and a rock thrown at him during the 2024 General Election campaign, also recounted an incident where his car was vandalized by protesters. He expressed concerns about online threats and the lack of police response to reports of violence instigation against him.
The Reform leader disclosed that he decided to speak out after his financial information was compromised. He explained that Harborne had agreed to cover his security expenses in early 2024, prior to his candidacy in the upcoming election. The financial assistance provided by Harborne, considered a gift and not subject to taxation, was intended to ensure Farage’s lifelong safety and protection.
Farage emphasized that the funding from Harborne aimed to guarantee his security, as he previously struggled to secure support from the Home Office in that regard. Notably, Harborne was present with Farage during an incident where a milkshake was thrown at him while campaigning in Newcastle in 2019.