London: More than 1 lakh anti-immigration protesters took to the streets, attacked policemen

New Delhi. More than 1 lakh protesters took out an anti-immigration march in the central areas of London on Saturday. This protest was led by anti-immigration activist Tommy Robinson. Police said that during this time many police officers were also attacked. This protest was organized in the name of ‘Unite the Kingdom’ march, in which about 1 lakh 10 thousand people participated.

Robinson’s rally coincided with the ‘Stand Up to Racism’ protest, in which about 5000 people participated. The Metropolitan Police had to struggle several times throughout the day to prevent clashes. The police prevented the protesters of the ‘Unite the Kingdom’ rally from entering the no-protest zone, breaking the police security cordon or going near the opposing group.

Police said that several officers were attacked during the demonstration. In response, additional police forces were deployed. The system was controlled with the help of officers wearing protective equipment and mounted police. At the same time, Robinson wrote in his message on X that we have gathered on the streets of Central London united for our freedom. Millions of people are involved in this.

Where did the demonstration start?
The march began with a protest outside immigrant hotels in Britain, in which those involved waved the Union Jack and the red-white St. George’s Cross flag. Some people also showed American and Israeli flags. Many protesters were also wearing ‘Make America Great Again’ caps associated with US President Donald Trump. They raised slogans criticizing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and also showed placards with messages like ‘send them home’. Some people also brought their children to the demonstration. At the rally, protesters also mourned the recent murder of American Conservative leader Charlie Kirk.

Who is Tommy Robinson?
Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has presented this march as a freedom of expression. Robinson describes himself as a journalist who exposes government flaws and counts influential people like American billionaire Elon Musk among his supporters. He may be very famous in Britain, but the country’s largest anti-immigrant party and the frontrunner in recent elections, Reform UK, has distanced itself from him due to his criminal cases.

What did the supporters say?
Supporter Sandra Mitchell said at the rally that we want our country back. We want to strengthen freedom of expression again. It is very important to stop illegal immigration. We trust Tommy Robinson.

More than 1600 policemen deployed
Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Police deployed more than 1600 policemen for security in London on Saturday due to the rally. These included 500 additional officers who were called in for help from other forces. The job of the police was not only to handle the protest, but also to monitor the football matches and concerts taking place in the city.

Police assured security
Police Commander Claire Haynes said that they will handle this protest in the same way as they handle any other protest. They will do policing without fear or bias. She said that people will be able to use their legitimate rights, but if any crime or incident occurs, the police will act on it with full force. Haynes acknowledged the history of incidents of anti-Muslim rhetoric and objectionable slogans by minorities in previous protests, but said that all communities in London should not stay locked in their homes out of fear. The police will ensure that everyone feels safe and can do their daily work without fear.

Immigration issue heats up in Britain
The issue of migration is very much discussed in Britain these days. Despite the country’s weakening economy, people are paying attention to this. So far this year, more than 28,000 people have reached Britain by crossing the English Channel in small boats. Red and white British flags have increased on the streets. Supporters consider it patriotism, while opponents are calling it a sign of spreading hatred against foreigners.