At least 4,000 police officers were deployed to quell violence and hate speech in central London today, where two opposing marches occurred, leading to 31 arrests.
The extensive security operation, costing £4.5 million, was deemed unprecedented in recent times. More than 600 officers from various regions were present to maintain separation between Tommy Robinson supporters and Nakba Day march participants. The deployment included armed officers, riot gear-equipped personnel, police horses, and dogs on standby to prevent major disruptions.
As of 4:30 pm, a spokesperson from the Metropolitan Police confirmed 31 arrests across the entire operation. Noteworthy among the arrests was one individual linked to a Birmingham incident and another wanted for inciting violence against a police officer. Advanced measures such as live facial recognition technology and armored vehicles, unseen in London for 15 years, were also employed.
A significant crowd estimated at up to 50,000 Unite the Kingdom demonstrators and around 30,000 pro-Palestine activists gathered, reminiscent of a similar assembly last September. Chants in support of Tommy Robinson were heard alongside derogatory remarks about Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
The attendance at the Robinson rally, described as a freedom of speech and unity event, was notably lower than the previous gathering, with tightened measures against hate speech leading to the barring of 11 foreign far-right speakers. Robinson, accompanied by security guards, was seen socializing at a London pub before joining the march.
Protesters donned ‘Make Britain Great Again’ caps and displayed various flags, including Israel, Union Jack, and St George’s flags, with some advocating for immigration control. At Trafalgar Square, offensive statements were made by a march participant, drawing mixed reactions from the crowd.
Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn participated in the Nakba Day protest, emphasizing unity among diverse groups against the backdrop of Palestinian displacement. Labour MP Apsana Begum reiterated the movement’s resilience against far-right influences.
Keir Starmer condemned the Unite the Kingdom march organizers for promoting division and hatred, pledging to combat such sentiments. Police reiterated a zero-tolerance stance on hate speech and offensive activities during both events, with stringent measures in place to ensure public safety.
The crackdown on criminal behavior followed heightened security concerns and previous disruptive incidents in the capital involving far-right elements. Law enforcement faced challenges, including attacks on officers and disruptive behavior during the protests.