South Coast protests
The UK government condemned weekend protests on the South Coast disrupting ports and processing centres, citing public safety risks and criminal behaviour.
Around 150 individuals arrived unannounced at the Port of Dover on Saturday morning, many wearing face coverings. Kent Police responded swiftly to the 'no-notice' protest, which dispersed without arrests but caused delays for ferry passengers and motorists. Local residents and workers described the scenes as unsettling, though full port access was later restored.
In Portsmouth on Sunday afternoon, a boat carrying approximately 120 people entered British waters near the Isle of Wight. The RNLI, directed by HM Coastguard, guided the vessel to Eastney Marina. However, over 200 protestors later gathered at the harbour, dressed in black with face masks, intending to block coaches transporting arrivals for processing.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, supported by neighbouring forces, issued dispersal notices and used batons and PAVA spray to maintain order amid aggression. Operations continued into the early hours, with protestors dispersing around 4am and coaches eventually departing. Investigations are ongoing, and criminal charges will follow where evidence is found.
The Minister for Policing and Crime thanked police and emergency services for their response in Dover and Portsmouth. Work is underway to assess lessons and share intelligence across law enforcement, while reaffirming that disorder will not be tolerated and peaceful protest remains protected under UK democracy.