A massive far-right rally led by Tommy Robinson overwhelmed central London, leaving 26 police officers injured and at least 25 people arrested after violent clashes erupted between protesters and law enforcement. The Unite the Kingdom protest drew between 110,000 and 150,000 supporters, far exceeding the capacity of Whitehall and Trafalgar Square.
The sheer scale of the demonstration created persistent safety problems throughout the day. Protesters spilled out of designated areas, with some diverting towards Victoria Embankment to escape dangerous overcrowding that police described as "understandable."
Violence erupts
Violence broke out when officers tried to prevent Robinson supporters from circling a counter-demonstration and entering the area from multiple routes. Mounted units and baton-wielding officers were deployed as scuffles spread across Whitehall and Trafalgar Square, with protesters hurling projectiles towards counter-demonstrators.
Four officers were seriously injured, suffering broken teeth, a suspected broken nose, concussion, a prolapsed disc, and a head wound. Only Bristol Post reports that a glass bottle struck a police horse, causing both horse and rider to stagger backwards.
Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist said police had faced a "wholly unacceptable" level of aggression. "Many came to protest lawfully, but others arrived intent on violence," he said. "They confronted officers, engaging in physical and verbal abuse and making determined efforts to breach cordons."
Counter-protests and high-profile speakers
Around 5,000 anti-racism campaigners held a separate counter-protest organised by Stand Up To Racism. Their demonstration finished at 4pm with fewer incidents, though tensions ran high as rival groups faced each other across police barriers.
The rally featured appearances by far-right figures from across Europe. Tesla and X owner Elon Musk appeared via video link, declaring that Britain faced "destruction" from "massive uncontrolled migration."
Only Bristol Post reports that international speakers included French presidential candidate Eric Zemmour, Danish People's Party's Morten Messerschmidt, and Alternative for Germany's Petr Bystron. Former actor Laurence Fox, ex-Apprentice contestant Katie Hopkins, and television personality Ant Middleton also spoke in person.
Investigations continue
Those arrested face charges including affray, violent disorder, assaults and criminal damage. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood condemned the attacks on police, vowing that those involved in violence would "face the full force of the law."
Only WalesOnline reports that related protests occurred in Wales, with 400 "stop the boats" protesters and 300 counter-protesters gathering in Newtown. The Metropolitan Police warned that more arrests are expected as investigations continue into the London violence.
Sources used: "Express", "WalesOnline", "bristolpost.co.uk"
Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
