12/09/2026
Police in Portsmouth have warned crowds not to cover their faces as rival protest groups gather in the city centre. Anti-immigration protesters and anti-racism demonstrators assembled to face each other on opposite sides of Guildhall Square in Portsmouth.
Members of both crowds were seen shouting across the square as police attempted to keep the groups separated. The face-off comes after masked men dressed in black blockaded the Port of Dover last weekend.
Police issued explicit warnings to everyone attending the demonstration in Portsmouth not to wear face coverings. Officers made clear that anyone attempting to hide their identity could face immediate arrest under public order powers.
The demonstrations follow several days of far-right protests across the region, triggered by small boat arrivals. Hampshire Police confirmed that strict gathering conditions were placed on both groups to maintain order in the city centre.
"We will support those who want to express their views peacefully and lawfully, but we will not tolerate those whose only aim is to create fear and incite violence," a police spokesperson said.
Police units remain stationed throughout Guildhall Square to prevent further escalation between the opposing sides.
On Friday, Hampshire Police said ahead of the planned protest: "We will support those who want to express their views peacefully and lawfully, but we will not tolerate those whose only aim is to create fear and incite violence."
‼️🚨