A scene of uproar unfolded outside Downing Street as demonstrators gathered in response to claims that Tommy Robinson had been detained under anti-terror laws.
Protesters, many waving large Union and England flags, chanted “release Tommy now” and “we want Tommy out” while tourists watched and recorded the scene on their phones.
Tommy Robinson’s verified social media accounts reported early this morning that he had been arrested by police under anti-terror laws and that he would be charged with terror offenses later tonight.
However, the Metropolitan Police have denied any involvement, stating they do not recognize the claims of Robinson’s detention. Similarly, Bedfordshire Police, who are familiar with Robinson and cover the area where he is believed to reside, also deny any involvement.
As the crowd of about 70 people grew, with several teenage boys among them shouting “oh, Tommy Robinson,” the situation intensified. Protesters voiced various conspiracy theories, including claims of a “deep state” controlling the country.
One individual carried a flag with the message “Jesus is our God,” while four protesters displayed a large banner depicting Robinson with tape over his mouth and the slogan “freetommy.”
Several protesters expressed confusion about Robinson’s whereabouts.
At one point, dozens of people crowded around and chanted “Tommy Robinson” at a young woman who criticized Robinson’s film about a Syrian schoolboy.
The woman, who appeared to be filming, was escorted away by police as the crowd continued to shout at her, with some making offensive remarks.
The scene saw a mix of political symbols, with some individuals wearing “Make America Great Again” hats and others holding T-shirts featuring Robinson with tape over his mouth and “£freetommy.”
An organizer of the protest was warned by police about blocking access to Downing Street and risked being removed. The protesters then moved to Scotland Yard, the Met Police HQ, later in the afternoon.
At Scotland Yard, an organizer compared Robinson’s situation to an attempted assassination, shouting from a bench beside the Scotland Yard sign, “Today they are attempting to assassinate Tommy Robinson and we must stop them.”
The Metropolitan Police clarified that they were not involved in Robinson’s alleged arrest and were unaware of any connection to the demonstration held the previous day in London. They urged that any protests remain lawful to avoid serious disruption.
This protest follows a massive rally held by Robinson at Trafalgar Square, which attracted thousands of supporters.
Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, faced warnings of possible imprisonment after screening a banned film to his supporters.
The film, about a Syrian refugee, had previously been deemed in contempt of court.
Robinson had been ordered to pay £100,000 in damages to the refugee, Jamal Hijazi, after making false claims about him.
Robinson posted a video on X (formerly known as Twitter) claiming he was being held under counter-terrorism legislation.
Following this, a number of protesters gathered outside Downing Street, repeating their calls for Robinson’s release.
The protest scene saw varied symbols and messages, including flags and banners supporting Robinson.
Police Actions and Arrests
The Metropolitan Police have noted that they were unaware of the specific films shown at Robinson’s rally.
They acknowledged that there had been arrests related to the event, including two men taken into custody after an anti-racism protester was attacked.
Further arrests included individuals suspected of assaulting emergency workers and committing other offenses.
The police used the Public Order Act to manage the situation and prevent clashes between opposing groups. The escalating situation highlights the ongoing tension and the challenges faced by authorities in maintaining order amidst conflicting demonstrations.
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