Metropolitan Police leaders have strongly condemned violent scenes at Saturday’s Unite The Kingdom rally, led by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, where 26 officers were injured in what is believed to be the largest right-wing demonstration in British history.
Police confirmed 25 arrests so far for offences including affray, violent disorder, assault, and criminal damage, with more expected. Officers were kicked, punched, and targeted with bottles, flares, and other objects. Injuries included broken teeth, a suspected broken nose, concussion, a prolapsed disc, and a head wound.
The rally, which drew an estimated 150,000 people to central London, far exceeded organisers’ expectations. Police described the violence as “wholly unacceptable” after officers tried to control crowds that spilled onto Westminster Bridge and surrounding streets.
Counter-protesters from Stand Up To Racism gathered in Whitehall with around 5,000 in attendance. Officers were forced to form cordons to keep the groups apart, at times using protective shields, mounted units, and dogs as tensions escalated.
Scuffles broke out when Robinson’s supporters attempted to breach police barriers. Projectiles were thrown, protesters climbed scaffolding, and officers were assaulted. By late afternoon, reinforcements were deployed, including mounted police, to contain the unrest.
Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist said many had come to protest peacefully, but “there were many who came intent on violence.” He praised officers for their bravery under “very challenging circumstances,” adding that post-event investigations were underway to identify offenders.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan called the attacks on police “completely unacceptable,” while Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stressed that peaceful protest was a right, but violence against officers would be met with “the full force of the law.”
The Met confirmed investigations will continue, warning those involved in disorder to expect arrests in the days ahead.
