A controversial 'white lives matter' protest took place in Glasgow city centre tonight, drawing strong condemnation from anti-racist groups who described the gathering as 'far-right'. Masked individuals assembled on the steps of Buchanan Galleries, following the murder of Henry Nowak, an 18-year-old whose death has sparked nationwide protests.
Background of the Protests
Vickrum Digwa, 23, was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years for the murder of Henry Nowak in December. The case gained widespread attention after police body-worn video footage was released, showing Mr Nowak being handcuffed moments before losing consciousness and dying. The footage has ignited anger across the UK, leading to violent demonstrations in Southampton and now Glasgow.
Details of the Glasgow Rally
Protesters unfurled a banner reading: 'Henry Nowak, stabbed, handcuffed, bleeding, "I can't breathe", White Lives Matter.' The rally prompted a significant police response, with over a dozen police cars spotted on Jamaica Street and officers forming a wall on Glasgow Bridge and Buchanan Street.
Stand Up To Racism Glasgow condemned the protest, alleging that attendees assaulted passers-by and stole a delivery driver's bicycle. The group claimed the event was orchestrated by 'far-right figures' aiming to sow division.
Community Response
A spokesperson for Stand Up To Racism Glasgow stated: 'Glaswegians of all backgrounds and faiths will stand together against any attempts to spread violence and hatred in our communities. Time and again we have shown the far right that a majority of us reject their poison. We will not allow fascists to march on our streets unopposed, and we are already mobilising to oppose their planned protest in Glasgow on Saturday, July 25. We urge all anti-racists and anti-fascists concerned by these scenes to get involved in SUTR and help prepare to resist racism and the far right in every community.'
Police Scotland has been approached for comment regarding the incident.
