Thousands of people have gathered in London for a demonstration inspired by Tommy Robinson.
Counter-protesters also descended on the capital, with groups from Stand Up to Racism giving the Metropolitan Police plenty to deal with.
A separate rally is being held in support of Chris Kaba after Sergeant Martyn Blake was acquitted of murder following the fatal shooting of the 24-year-old gang member in September 2022.
Robinson, 41, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is not attending his own “Unite the Kingdom” march after being remanded in custody on Friday over contempt of court allegations.
Counter-protesters have also gathered in London
GETTY
Supporters of Robinson will march from Victoria Station to Parliament Square from around 12.30pm.
Demonstrators were seen wearing “I am Peter Lynch” badges in reference to the summer rioter who died in prison last week.
Chants of “Oh Tommy, Tommy” were also heard as hundreds of attendees were met with a heavy police presence in Central London.
Stand Up to Racism protesters were seen holding placards saying “refugees welcome”, “end racism” and “oppose Tommy Robinson”.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Tommy Robinson outside Folkestone Police Station,
PA
Metropolitan Police officers gather in Central London
PA
Scotland Yard this morning revealed that it was prepared for the planned protests.
GB News understands that officers were drafted in to provide assistance from forces outside of London.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Rachel Williams, who is leading the policing operation this weekend, said: “We are well prepared for what is set to be a busy day in the centre of London.
“Our role is to ensure that those attending the various events can do so safely and that they can exercise their right to lawful protest.
“We will have significant resources in place to respond to any incidents, to deal decisively with any offences, and to keep disruption to other members of the public and businesses to a minimum.
Supporters were heard chanting about Robinson
PA
People gather at Victoria Station to stage a demonstration, organized by Tommy Robinson
GETTY
“We know that when groups with opposing views come together it can lead to conflict and disorder and a key part of our role is ensuring that does not happen.
“We have used Public Order Act conditions to ensure that those involved stick to routes and assembly areas that are sufficiently far apart.
“Officers will be monitoring closely to ensure that conditions are adhered to.
“The impact of frequent significant protest in central London is considerable, not least on the officers deployed to police them.
“Many would be working in other frontline roles if they weren’t required for these events.
“We’re grateful for the assistance of colleagues from other forces whose contribution means we are able to police protests while also keeping local communities across London safe.”
