Far-right protesters block asylum seekers in Portsmouth

Hundreds of far-right activists descended on Portsmouth following the interception of a boat carrying 140 asylum seekers. The vessel was brought ashore in the maritime city, with plans for the occupants to be taken to Manston for processing. However, large groups of protesters blocked roads for hours, vowing to prevent the new arrivals from reaching the centre. Videos circulating on social media showed protesters close to coaches and blocking vehicles carrying asylum seekers from leaving.

The atmosphere in Portsmouth was described as tense, with some protesters wearing black and face masks, and two police cars reportedly having their windscreens smashed. Hampshire police urged people to avoid the area and implemented a dispersal order. The government condemned the "intimidating and thuggish behaviour," stating that while peaceful protest is fundamental, it must not cross into disorder.

Daniel Thomas, a former bodyguard of Tommy Robinson, livestreamed from the scene and encouraged viewers to join the protest. Thomas recently established Patriot Platform, which was involved in a protest in Dover on Saturday that blocked roads. The Dover rally also saw protesters chanting anti-migrant slogans and caused traffic disruption, though no arrests were made.

Small boat crossings have reduced by over 40% this year compared to the same period last year, with the Home Office attributing this to disrupted smuggler networks. However, methods appear to have evolved, with boats launched further from the UK, making crossings more dangerous. Most arrivals are typically rescued by Border Force and RNLI boats and brought ashore in Dover.