A gathering of approximately 30 to 40 individuals formed outside a Marriott Hotel in Cosham, Portsmouth, on Tuesday evening following the spread of false rumors about migrants arriving by bus. The crowd dispersed after police intervention confirmed the presence of the touring Pakistan under-19 national cricket team.
Hampshire Constabulary reported that officers were dispatched to the scene shortly before 6:30 p.m. BST in response to concerns about a coach seen in the area. Police spokespersons stated that officers engaged with the assembled individuals, addressed their concerns, and clarified that the rumors were incorrect. No offenses were identified during the incident, and the crowd left the area before 9:00 p.m.
Reform county councillor George Madgwick was among those who urged people not to attend the gathering. He stated he had been shown proof by hotel staff that the guests were indeed the visiting cricket team.