Police officers detain a protester during the Tommy Robinson-led Unite the Kingdom march and rally in central London. Picture date: Saturday September 13, 2025.. The Tommy Robinson-led Unite the Kingdom march and rally, and the March Against Fascism, organised by Stand Up To Racism (SUTR), are both taking place in the city. Photo credit should read: Pol Allingham/PA Wire
UPDATE: A significant protest led by far-right activist Tommy Robinson in London has turned violent, with clashes erupting between his supporters and police. The Unite the Kingdom rally, which attracted approximately 110,000 attendees, saw multiple incidents of aggression, resulting in at least nine arrests as of this afternoon.
The Metropolitan Police reported that officers faced physical assaults, with several being punched, kicked, and struck by bottles thrown by unruly individuals at the rally’s fringes. Tensions escalated as Robinson’s followers attempted to break through barriers separating them from the March Against Fascism counter-protest, which drew around 5,000 participants. More than 1,600 officers were deployed across London, including 500 reinforcements from other forces, as authorities aimed to maintain order.
Earlier today, police issued a statement on X, stating, “We continue to see significant aggression directed at officers by Unite the Kingdom protesters.” While the majority of the protests had been peaceful, the situation deteriorated in the late afternoon, leading to a chaotic scene as items were hurled at counter-protesters.
In a surprising twist, Elon Musk made a virtual appearance during the rally, urging for a change in government and criticizing what he termed the “woke mind virus.” His involvement adds a notable layer to the already contentious atmosphere surrounding the event.
Witnesses reported a troubling incident involving a man who was escorted away from the rally with blood streaming down his face. The circumstances of his injury remain unclear, heightening concerns about safety amid the escalating conflict.
The backdrop of these protests includes ongoing national discourse regarding migrants arriving in the UK, particularly through the English Channel. Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has long been a polarizing figure in British politics, advocating for nationalist and anti-migrant sentiments. The rally was framed as a demonstration for free speech and the preservation of British heritage.
Participants waved St George’s flags and chanted, “we want our country back,” reflecting a rise in nationalist sentiment across the UK. Conversely, counter-protesters held signs proclaiming “refugees welcome” and “smash the far right,” showcasing the deep divisions within British society.
Following previous violent protests against asylum-seekers, the atmosphere surrounding this rally is one of heightened tension. Earlier this year, Robinson had intended to hold a rally but was unable to do so due to legal issues stemming from a contempt of court conviction.
As the situation continues to develop, authorities are on high alert, preparing for potential further unrest. The Metropolitan Police have indicated that more arrests may follow as they assess the aftermath of these confrontations.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
