Tommy Robinson Arrested, Will Miss London Protest
Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, better known as Tommy Robinson, has been snapped up by Kent Police – just hours before his planned protest at Downing Street. The 41-year-old English Defence League founder was taken into custody at Folkestone Police Station shortly after 3pm and is set to remain held over the weekend.
His latest arrest ties into a contempt of court case due at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday. Robinson’s own X account confirmed the news: “We can confirm that Tommy is now being held on remand until Monday where he will appear at Woolwich Crown Court at 10 am.”
Legal Battles and Protest Plans
Robinson, already tangled in legal woes, originally got bail after a July arrest at a Kent port. He allegedly refused to hand over his mobile phone PIN under the Terrorism Act 2000, which lets police detain anyone suspected of terrorism-related activity at UK ports. He’s due at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on November 13 over this incident.
Despite Robinson’s absence, tens of thousands of his supporters plan to march from Victoria Station to Whitehall tomorrow.
When Robinson arrived at the police station, sporting a black coat and ripped jeans, he acknowledged his likely detention, telling a supporter: “Have a good day tomorrow, brother.”
Supporters Rally as Police Brace for Clashes
Fans gathered outside Folkestone Police Station from 2 pm, chanting Robinson’s name as he was led inside. He carried what he called his “prison bag” and arrived with an entourage.
Security is tight in London with officers erecting barriers around Westminster ahead of protests and counter-demonstrations organised by Stand Up to Racism. The Metropolitan Police have promised a “significant police presence” backed by forces nationwide to keep rival groups apart and maintain public order.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Rachel Williams said: “We are well prepared for what is set to be a busy day in the centre of London. Our role is to ensure those attending can do so safely and lawfully.”
High Court Contempt Case Looms
Robinson’s contempt charge stems from alleged breaches of a 2021 High Court injunction banning him from repeating false claims against Syrian refugee Jamal Hijazi. The refugee sued Robinson for libel over an assault case from 2018, winning £100,000 in damages.
The court claims relate to Robinson screening a film called Silenced at a July protest in Trafalgar Square, allegedly violating the injunction.
After fleeing the UK on July 28, Robinson returned recently, initially fearing arrest at Luton Airport on October 20 but managed to pass through unnoticed. Today, he surrendered himself at Folkestone Police Station, predicting the arrest ahead of his Monday court hearing.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed they will deploy extensive resources to keep the demonstrations safe and disruption minimal.
