A mass anti-immigration rally billed as “Unite the Kingdom” drew well over 100,000 people to central London on Saturday and descended into violent clashes with police as a small number of attendees broke from the approved route and confronted officers and counter-protesters.
Organised by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, the demonstration moved toward Whitehall where a separate counter-protest — organised by Stand Up To Racism and other groups — had gathered. Large crowds carried Union and St George’s Cross flags, chanted against the prime minister and demanded tougher immigration controls.
Metropolitan Police said officers faced “unacceptable violence” from members of the rally, reporting around two dozen injured officers, four of them seriously. Police described incidents of officers being punched and kicked and struck by thrown objects; reinforcements in helmets and riot gear were deployed and a cordon was used to keep the rival groups apart.
At least 20–30 people were arrested on suspicion of offences including violent disorder, assaults and criminal damage, and police said investigations to identify those involved would continue in the coming days. Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist warned that people responsible for disorder could expect “robust police action.”
Organisers and prominent speakers framed the event as a defence of free speech and national sovereignty, while critics and anti-racism campaigners said the rally promoted xenophobic and inflammatory rhetoric. The scale of the turnout and the violence have intensified debate in Britain about immigration policy, public safety and how authorities police large, politically charged demonstrations.
London transport and city services reported major disruption during the demonstration, with parts of central London crowded for hours and officials urging people to check travel plans. Police said they would review the day’s operational response and work to identify those who instigated violence.
