Mass Anti-Immigration Protest in London Turns Violent

On September 13, the largest anti-immigrant protest in recent years took place in London. According to police data, up to 150,000 people took to the streets. The action was organized by right-wing activist Tommy Robinson, who called it a "rally for free speech." Protesters with British flags demanded the resignation of Keir Starmer's government and a restriction on the flow of migrants.

The peaceful march quickly turned into clashes: participants began throwing bottles and smoke bombs at the police. According to official data, 26 police officers were injured, four of whom received serious injuries. The police officers were diagnosed with fractures, concussions, and lost teeth. 25 people have already been arrested, but, as the police note, the number of arrests will increase.

Robinson himself, who is known in Britain for his extremist actions and numerous convictions, announced the start of a "cultural revolution" and promised that "the silent majority will no longer be silent." He was supported by well-known right-wing politicians, including Donald Trump's former adviser Steve Bannon and French publicist Éric Zemmour.

At the same time, about 5,000 opponents of the action took to the streets. The demonstration was held under the slogan "No to Hate," and among its participants was Labour MP Diane Abbott, who called Robinson's statements "dangerous nonsense."