Five British nationals, described as far-right activists, were fined and banned from parts of northern France after being apprehended near Dunkirk with weapons, according to reports. The group, aged between 30 and 46, were driving a minibus nicknamed the 'battle bus' and were allegedly planning to confront migrants attempting to cross the English Channel.
French authorities arrested the individuals in Grande-Synthe on Thursday, confiscating tear gas canisters, pepper spray, and a baton, items prohibited under French law. Prosecutors stated the group had livestreamed themselves intimidating migrants.
While the activists avoided immediate prison sentences, they were fined a total of £2,500 and each ordered to pay €418 (approximately £418) to migrant charities. They were also expelled from France and banned from the Nord and Pas-de-Calais departments for six months.
An investigation into allegations of violent offenses against undocumented migrants did not establish evidence of such actions, according to a statement from prosecutor Charlotte Huet. However, the charges for participating in a group preparing violence and for possessing classified weapons without legitimate reason could carry further penalties, including up to two years in jail and a €30,000 fine if the alleged crimes were committed by multiple individuals acting together.
This incident follows previous detentions of British nationals in France. In January, two Britons were arrested and deported on suspicion of involvement in a banned anti-migrant protest near Calais. Ten other British activists were previously banned from French territory after accusations of violence against migrants on the French coast. The issue of migrants crossing the Channel from France to the UK remains a contentious topic in both countries, contributing to political discourse and the rise of anti-migrant sentiment in some areas.