Hundreds of masked protesters disrupted traffic at the Port of Dover on Saturday morning, blocking roads and causing significant delays for holidaymakers and freight vehicles. The demonstration, which began around 7 a.m. in the Kent port town, saw participants dressed predominantly in black and wearing balaclavas. They chanted slogans such as “Stop the boats” and “England till I die” while occupying key routes into and out of the port, leading to traffic queues stretching several miles and leaving many stranded for hours.
The protest was organized by Danny Thomas, known as Danny Tommo, founder of the group Patriot Platform and an associate of far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Thomas has previously engaged in anti-migrant actions, including beach patrols aimed at deterring small boats crossing the Channel. The demonstration was streamed live on social media and appeared to be premeditated, with local officials suggesting that many protesters were transported into Dover from outside the area overnight. This contradicted claims by Kent police, who described the protest as “spontaneous” and said they had limited prior intelligence about the event.
Despite the disruption, the protest remained mostly peaceful, with no reports of violence or arrests. Police eventually managed to escort protesters away from the blocked roads by midday, allowing traffic and ferry operations to return to normal. Ferry operators P&O Ferries and DFDS assured passengers affected by the delays that they would be accommodated on the next available crossings.
Local politicians from across the spectrum condemned the protest and raised concerns over the apparent lack of police preparedness. Mike Tapp, Labour MP for Dover and Deal, criticized the demonstration as coordinated and expressed frustration over the absence of prior warnings or sufficient police resources. Chris Vinson, leader of the Conservative group on Dover district council, described the event as “co-ordinated” and “intimidating,” highlighting that many drivers were trapped for hours by individuals wearing paramilitary-style clothing and face coverings.
The Home Office issued a statement condemning the disruption while reaffirming the right to peaceful protest. A government spokesperson expressed sympathy for those affected and praised police and travel providers for their response. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage also spoke out against protesters wearing balaclavas, calling such actions unacceptable.
The protest drew wider attention amid ongoing political debate over small boat crossings in the English Channel. Authorities are continuing to address migrant arrivals, with recent reports indicating a shift towards larger boats carrying up to 200 migrants. On Friday, Farage announced a political pact with Jordan Bardella, leader of France’s National Rally party, to reinforce policies aimed at returning migrants attempting to cross the Channel.
Anti-racism campaigners warned that the protest was a consequence of insufficient action against far-right agitation around migration issues. Nick Lowles of Hope Not Hate criticized police and authorities for allowing individuals like Thomas to organize direct-action events, warning that such protests could escalate without more decisive intervention.
The Port of Dover and local services have resumed normal operations following the protest, but officials caution that the potential for future demonstrations remains a concern for the community and authorities alike.