A 42-year-old man has been arrested in connection with anti-migrant protests that occurred last weekend in Portsmouth. Hampshire Police announced the arrest on Friday morning, stating the individual is suspected of violent disorder and assaulting a constable.
The protests, which involved at least 200 activists, took place at Eastney Marina on Sunday night. Demonstrators gathered to prevent approximately 120 migrants, who had arrived after crossing the Channel, from leaving the area by coach. The activists blocked the sole road accessing the marina, leading to an eight-hour standoff.
By the early hours of Monday morning, the number of protesters had decreased, allowing the coaches to depart. Several police, coastguard, and Border Force vehicles sustained damage during the events, and a small number of officers received treatment for injuries that were not serious.
Hampshire Police confirmed they are continuing their investigation into the public disorder, working alongside the Border Force, Maritime & Coastguard Agency, RNLI, and Portsmouth City Council. The force has reviewed approximately three-quarters of the video footage collected from the scene.
Assistant Chief Constable Tony Rowlinson stated that this arrest is the first of several anticipated as the investigation progresses. "This morning's arrest is the first of several anticipated arrests that we will make as part of this investigation based on the footage that has already been viewed," Rowlinson said. He emphasized that violence and criminal damage are not acceptable in peaceful protest and that the police will take robust action against those responsible.
Rowlinson clarified that the events on Sunday evening constituted "violent public disorder" and would not be tolerated. He acknowledged that immediate arrests are not always possible in public order situations, particularly when evidence requires thorough review to identify offenders.
"I want to be really clear to all of those involved, this arrest is the first of what we fully anticipate to be a number of arrests as we identify those responsible for any assaults to officers, criminal damage to vehicles, or other criminal offences committed on Sunday evening," he added.
He also noted that officers and personnel from partner agencies should not be subjected to online abuse or threats, and that the force will collaborate with other police services to address any such issues. The arrest serves as a warning to those who intend to cause disruption at future events, with the police committing to taking action and seeking prosecution where feasible. The protest followed a similar demonstration at the port of Dover the previous Saturday.