Northumbria Police confirmed that 13 people were arrested on suspicion of crimes committed during rival political demonstrations in Newcastle city centre on Saturday, June 13, 2026. The police stated that most of the demonstration activity passed peacefully, despite the arrests.
Details of the Demonstrations
The demonstrations began around 11am and involved groups from Unite the Right UK and Unite to Stop the Far Right, holding events at several locations in the city centre. Hundreds of police officers were present as activists marched through major thoroughfares.
The Unite the Right action saw a group of anti-immigration activists congregate around the city, including at Old Eldon Square. Meanwhile, the Unite to Stop the Far Right rally, organised by groups such as Stand Up To Racism North East, Newcastle Unites, and the Green Party, featured a march that started at Newcastle Civic Centre.
Police Response
On Sunday, a Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "The safety of the public is our utmost priority and when we became aware of planned protest activity in Newcastle on Saturday, we ensured we had an increased presence in the city to deliver a proportionate policing response."
The spokesperson added: "While the activity across several locations in the city centre mainly passed without incident, disappointingly, 13 people were arrested in connection with public order offences. The right to lawful protest is a key part of any democracy, and one which the police uphold. However, we will not accept people using them as a means to commit crime."
Police urged anyone with concerns following the demonstrations to contact them via direct message on social media, the live chat function on their website, or by calling 101.
