Leaders of UK anti-migrant street patrols accused of domestic abuse by ex-partners

An investigation has found that leading figures behind a growing network of anti-immigration street patrol groups across the UK have histories of domestic abuse, according to seven women who came forward as survivors. The women say they experienced controlling, emotional and physical violence from men who now present themselves publicly as community protectors.

At least 14 such patrol groups have sprung up in British towns and cities, collectively receiving tens of thousands of pounds in public donations alongside support from some politicians, including a senior figure from Reform UK. Wearing hi-vis clothing and sometimes protective vests, members patrol local streets claiming to safeguard women, but have also been documented stopping and questioning men of colour and demanding identification.

Accounts of abuse

One woman described a relationship that began when she was 16 with a man who later became a prominent local figure in a nationalist flag campaign. Over time he grew increasingly controlling, restricting her movements, and the abuse intensified after she had their child. On the night she left him, he attacked her with a machete, leaving her with injuries including a black eye and broken toes. Despite police involvement, the case never led to a conviction, and she says threats continued after the relationship ended.

Another woman said her former partner, who now organises patrols outside schools, was abusive throughout her pregnancy and continued to behave violently afterward, including an incident in which he grabbed her by the throat.

Criminal records among organisers

The report also details specific legal cases: one group's founder had serious charges including rape dropped after the alleged victim withdrew support for prosecution, but was separately convicted of coercive control earlier this year. Another organiser was jailed in 2022 for a racially motivated attack, while a co-founder of a different patrol group was convicted in 2018 of threatening and assaulting a former partner.

The findings echo earlier Guardian reporting that identified patterns of intimate partner violence among people involved in UK riots in 2024.