Police in Portsmouth have warned that people wearing face coverings at planned protests this weekend could be arrested under new powers. The warning comes from Hampshire Police, which said the measures, introduced under the Crime and Policing Act 2025, will be used to “allow peaceful protest and prevent violence” following disorder in the city last weekend.
New police powers in force
The new powers will be in force this weekend, according to the force. The warning specifically targets those attending protests in Portsmouth while wearing face masks, with officers saying such individuals could be subject to arrest.
The measures are part of a broader response to recent unrest in the city, which saw disorder over the previous weekend. Hampshire Police has framed the new approach as a way to balance the right to protest with public safety.
Context of the warning
The warning was issued ahead of planned demonstrations, with police urging attendees to comply with the new rules. The force has not specified how many protests are expected or the exact locations, but has emphasised that the powers will be actively used.
This is a breaking news story and more details are expected to follow.
