Hundreds of balaclava-clad protesters have gathered in Dover, causing major disruption and leaving locals feeling intimidated, with far-right activist Tommy Robinson claiming that “many more” are on their way.
Demonstrators dressed in black and wearing balaclavas gathered on the roads near the Port of Dover today in what police have described as a “protest”.
Robinson's social media claims
Taking to X, Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, said "British patriots are gridlocking Dover with many more on their way". In another post, he suggested the protest in Dover was part of a co-ordinated plan, saying: "Simultaneously at different locations across Dover patriots have mobilised to close down the port."
Videos and images circulating on social media show no obvious signs of placards or banners, but the protest is believed to be held against illegal immigration.
Local disruption and reaction
Footage circulating online showed the group, appearing largely to be men, gathered at the Kent port this morning. A group was later seen marching through the town and chanting “whose streets? our streets!” and “stop the boats” as dozens of police officers followed.
The protesters' presence this morning brought traffic on the A20 to a standstill and left people unable to freely enter or leave the Port of Dover.
The large group of men walking through the streets also left some local women feeling frightened, according to Paul King, a Reform UK councillor for Dover West. King said he had been told the demonstration was a “Stop the Boats” protest, and stressed that Reform UK does not condone protesters causing public disturbance or making residents feel intimidated.
MP criticism and police response
Mike Tapp, the Labour MP for Dover and Deal, criticised what he called “idiots” travelling to Dover. In a post on Facebook he said: "Park run cancelled and port access disrupted. I am fed up with idiots coming to Dover to cause disruption. I bet if you asked any one of those “protesters” they wouldn’t know small boat crossings are down by 40% and we are working hard to fix the mess." He also urged demonstrators to “Go home, enjoy your weekend/get a job”.
Kent Police officers said in a post on X earlier this morning they are “engaging” with protesters at the Port of Dover. It read: "We are aware of a protest currently taking place at the Port of Dover. Officers are in attendance and engaging with protesters."
Operators including Irish Ferries and P&O Ferries have pledged to help customers affected to get on the next available sailing. The Express has contacted Kent Police and Port of Dover Police for more information regarding the nature of the protest.
