London [UK], September 14 (ANI): Thousands of protesters marched through central London on Saturday, carrying flags of England and Britain, for a demonstration organized by anti-immigrant and anti-Islam activist Tommy Robinson, the New York Post reported.
The rallies involved two opposing groups: ‘Unite the Kingdom’ and ‘Stand Up To Racism.’ According to the Metropolitan Police, clashes broke out as both groups threw projectiles at each other, prompting police intervention. During the unrest, some ‘Unite the Kingdom’ protesters also attacked officers. Nine protesters were arrested, with additional individuals identified for other offenses.
In a post on X, the police said, “An update as of 16:50hrs. The turnout for the ‘Unite the Kingdom’ protest was too big to fit into Whitehall. Protesters left the route onto Victoria Embankment and sought to access Whitehall from multiple directions. When officers moved in to stop them, they faced unacceptable violence. They were assaulted with kicks and punches. Bottles, flares, and other projectiles were thrown. Nine arrests have been made so far for various offences, but many more people have been identified as committing offences. We will find them and they will face police action, even if it is not possible to do so today. Officers are continuing to face aggression in multiple locations, particularly at the north of Whitehall as they work to create a safe exit route for those taking part in the Stand Up To Racism protest.”
Demonstrators carried the Union flag of Britain, the red-and-white St. George’s Cross of England, and in some cases, American and Israeli flags. Some wore MAGA hats in support of US President Donald Trump. Protesters chanted slogans critical of Prime Minister Keir Starmer and carried placards, including messages saying “send them home.” Some attendees brought children, the New York Post reported.
Immigration has emerged as a dominant political issue in Britain, overshadowing concerns about the economy as the country faces a record number of asylum claims. More than 28,000 migrants have arrived in small boats across the English Channel so far this year, according to the New York Post.
Red-and-white English flags were prominently displayed along streets and painted on roads. While supporters described it as a spontaneous display of national pride, anti-racism campaigners viewed it as a message of hostility toward foreigners. (ANI)
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