Chaos Erupts at Dover as Anti-Immigration Protesters and Police Clash
Police and anti-immigration demonstrators clashed outside Dover Harbour on Saturday in a fierce showdown. Several arrests were made for public order offences, and one person was treated by police medics, coastguard, and paramedics after collapsing amid the chaos.
Tensions Rise as Rival Protests Grip Dover
The unrest sparked as rival groups gathered in Dover over migrants crossing the Channel in small boats. The Anti-Racism Network rallied to show “solidarity” with refugees, while opposing protesters vowed to “protect Britain’s border.”
About 60 protesters marched along Dover seafront, many wearing Union flag masks and carrying Union Jack banners. They chanted, “Who’s streets? Our streets!” and hurled insults at yellow vest supporters. At one point, police restrained and arrested a person for obstruction offences.
Major Traffic Chaos as Protesters Block Key Routes
The Port of Dover warned of heavy disruptions on the A20 road, urging commuters to find alternative routes and allow extra travel time. Both sides of the road near the Eastern docks were shut and lined with police vehicles under “Operation Tap,” which was started early Saturday morning to control the situation.
Protesters blocked the dual carriageway in both directions, bringing traffic to a standstill. Some even sang “Rule, Britannia!” as they marched towards the town centre. Kent Police gradually moved the crowds along, pushing the last few protesters towards the train station by mid-afternoon.
Police and Authorities Respond
Kent Police said, “As a force, it is our responsibility to facilitate peaceful protests, however we will not tolerate violence or disorder.” It’s believed demonstrators travelled from across the UK, including as far as Pembrokeshire in North Wales.
A Home Office spokesman confirmed they were aware of the protests and had contingency plans to limit disruption. Kent Police have yet to release the full number of arrests made during the day’s unrest.
