Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, better known as Tommy Robinson, has been arrested by Kent Police, preventing him from attending his own protest planned for tomorrow outside Downing Street. The 41-year-old, who has been embroiled in a series of legal battles, was detained at Folkestone Police Station just after 3 pm today and will be held in custody over the weekend.
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Robinson, founder of the English Defence League, is currently facing a contempt of court case, which is set to be heard on Monday at Woolwich Crown Court. His arrest today relates to this ongoing legal matter, and he will remain in custody until his court appearance.
Robinson’s X account confirmed his detention, stating: “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 Troubles and Scheduled Protest
Robinson had initially been granted bail following his arrest in July at a port in Kent, where he was accused of failing to provide the PIN for his mobile phone under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000. The law allows police to detain anyone passing through a UK port if they suspect involvement in terrorism-related activities. Robinson is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on November 13 for this matter.
Despite his absence, the protest in London is expected to go ahead, with thousands of his supporters anticipated to march from Victoria station to Whitehall. Robinson, who arrived at the police station wearing a black coat and ripped jeans, expressed his expectation that he would not be released before Monday. “Have a good day tomorrow, brother,” he said to a supporter, acknowledging that he would miss the event.
Supporters Gather as Counter-Protests Planned
Robinson’s arrest has not deterred his supporters, who began gathering outside the police station at 2 pm, chanting his name as he was taken into custody. He was seen arriving with an entourage, carrying a bag he referred to as his “prison bag.
Security preparations are underway in London, with police setting up barriers around Westminster monuments ahead of the expected protest and a counter-demonstration organized by the group Stand Up to Racism. The Metropolitan Police, supported by officers from across the country, have announced a “significant police presence” to keep the two groups apart and manage the demonstrations.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Rachel Williams, overseeing the policing operation, stated: “We are well prepared for what is set to be a busy day in the centre of London. Our role is to ensure that those attending the various events can do so safely and that they can exercise their right to lawful protest.
Williams added that officers will be closely monitoring the situation to ensure compliance with Public Order Act conditions, which are designed to keep opposing groups at a safe distance from each other.
Contempt of Court Case Looms
Robinson’s current legal troubles stem from allegations that he breached a 2021 High Court injunction preventing him from repeating false claims against Syrian refugee Jamal Hijazi. The refugee, who was assaulted in 2018, successfully sued Robinson for libel, resulting in a £100,000 damages award. Robinson’s contempt charge relates to his airing of a film titled Silenced at a protest in Trafalgar Square in July, which is alleged to have breached the court order.
Robinson had previously left the UK on July 28, a day before his scheduled court appearance, and recently returned. Despite his earlier concerns that he would be arrested at Luton Airport upon his arrival on October 20, he was able to pass through without incident. Today, he handed himself in at Folkestone Police Station, claiming that he anticipated the arrest.
An update on the arrest of Stephen Yaxley-Lennon (Tommy Robinson) in Kent earlier this afternoon and its impact on tomorrow’s demonstration in central London. pic.twitter.com/7v9Y2YZdVo
— Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) October 25, 2024
The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that they will manage the protests with substantial resources, ensuring the safety of demonstrators and minimizing disruption to the public.
