Twelve arrested after violent protest over migrant boat arrival in England

Hampshire Police have made 12 arrests after a protest linked to the arrival of a migrant boat descended into violent disorder overnight. Officers had been deployed to support partner agencies, including the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, the RNLI, and Border Security Command, in case of an emergency at sea.

To manage the situation, police imposed conditions under the Public Order Act and used powers banning the wearing of face coverings at the scene. A small number of officers required treatment for injuries sustained during the disorder, though police confirmed no one involved was seriously hurt.

Police response

Assistant Chief Constable Simon Dodds said violence and criminal damage have no place in peaceful protest, describing the previous night's events as violent public disorder rather than legitimate demonstration. He said such behaviour would not be tolerated as the force works to keep communities in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight safe.

Dodds said officers, who worked diligently to ensure everyone's safety in the area, did not deserve to be assaulted. He added that neither police nor staff from partner agencies deserved to be singled out or subjected to abuse on social media, and that the force would work with colleagues across policing to address any online threats.

Police said they would continue reviewing body-worn camera footage and videos posted online to identify further offences, and that additional arrests may follow as the investigation continues.