Minister condemns disorder at Portsmouth anti-migrant protest after police officers hurt

Policing Minister Sarah Jones condemned the disorder that erupted during an anti-migrant protest in Portsmouth, warning those who engage in illegality would face the full force of the law. The unrest, which occurred on Sunday night, saw several police officers injured and vehicles damaged after around 200 protesters confronted officers in riot gear.

The demonstration was sparked by the arrival of 120 migrants in a single dinghy from France, which caused significant disruption in Portsmouth. Council leader Steve Pitt criticized the decision to bring the migrants to shore, calling it a needless disruption.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary stated that a handful of officers were treated at the scene for injuries, none of which were serious. The police emphasized that violence and criminal damage have no place in peaceful protest. No arrests have been made yet, but an investigation to identify offenders responsible for assaults on officers, criminal damage, or other offenses is underway.

Daniel Thomas, known as Danny Tommo, an associate of far-right activist Tommy Robinson, was among those livestreaming from the scene, urging supporters to join the protest and stop the migrants from being transported. The coaches carrying the migrants were able to leave early Monday morning, and the Border Force confirmed that individuals from the boat have been processed outside of Hampshire.

The minister emphasized that peaceful protest is a fundamental part of democracy but stressed that disorder will not be tolerated. Shadow home secretary Chris Philp condemned the violence in Portsmouth but noted that the issue of large-scale illegal immigration is a concern for millions of people across the country. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage warned of the potential for serious civil disturbance and called for peaceful protests, stating that voting is the only way to achieve a solution.