Thousands of Britons gathered in Central London today for a “Unite the Kingdom” march inspired by Tommy Robinson, although Robinson himself was absent after being remanded in custody for contempt of court.
Demonstrators, donning “I am Peter Lynch” badges, marched from Victoria Station to Parliament Square, with chants in support of Robinson.
The rally met with a substantial police presence, as well as counter-protesters from Stand Up to Racism, who displayed banners reading “refugees welcome” and “end racism.”
The Metropolitan Police reported two arrests of counter-protesters, including one for common assault, as pushing and shoving broke out in Whitehall.
In addition to the Robinson-inspired rally, a separate demonstration took place in support of Chris Kaba, following the acquittal of Sergeant Martyn Blake in the 2022 fatal shooting incident involving Kaba.
Scotland Yard, with support from other police forces, implemented Public Order Act conditions to prevent clashes between opposing groups.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Rachel Williams said the force’s commitment to ensuring public safety and minimizing disruption across London.
The policing operation included maintaining distance between the groups and closely monitoring adherence to designated routes and assembly areas, ensuring the right to lawful protest while managing the impact of frequent protests on local communities and police resources.
300,000 British protesters just conquered central London. I don’t think arresting Tommy Robinson had the effect they were hoping for… pic.twitter.com/SlRGb5GXnT
— Inevitable West (@Inevitablewest) October 26, 2024
