A protest in Southampton on Tuesday evening in response to the killing of Henry Nowak escalated into violence, resulting in injuries to eleven police officers and a police dog, as well as two arrests. The demonstration, initially drawing ordinary local residents upset by Nowak’s death and his treatment by police, also featured participation from far-right activists and groups.

The incident unfolded after Nowak was fatally attacked by Vickrum Digwa, who had accused him of racism—a claim later found to be false. Nowak had reportedly been handcuffed by police prior to the attack, prompting criticism and anger from some protesters.

While the protest began peacefully with speeches near Southampton police station, clashes broke out after many speakers had finished. Riot police faced projectiles including bricks and bins. Some far-right figures were identified among those involved in the unrest.

Community leaders expressed concern that far-right organisations had facilitated the rally by transporting supporters into Southampton. The event was organised by Southampton Patriots and supported by Patriots of Britain and Turning Point UK, an offshoot of the American group founded by conservative figures Charlie Kirk and Bill Montgomery.

Among the notable attendees was Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, known as Tommy Robinson, who addressed the crowd outside the police station. Robinson called for the removal of Digwa’s family from the city and claimed that Nowak’s handcuffing reflected unequal treatment based on race. Robinson is currently awaiting trial on harassment charges involving journalists.

Luke Jahn, organiser of the Portsmouth branch of the National Rebirth party, a fascist micro-party led by Alek Yerbury, was recorded at the protest engaging in confrontational behaviour with police and sharing white nationalist messages on social media.

Laurence Fox, former actor and founder of the far-right Reclaim party, also spoke, alleging racial bias in police treatment and branding officers at Southampton Central police station as adversaries.

Paul Golding, leader of Britain First and former British National Party member, urged protesters to channel their anger into political activism and accused police of ignoring what he described as “real criminals” responsible for undermining Britain’s identity.

Nick Tenconi, who became leader of Ukip after the resignation of Lois Perry last year and formerly held a senior role in Turning Point UK, pledged during his speech to initiate mass deportations and restore Christianity in government, concluding with the Lord’s Prayer reportedly dedicated to Henry Nowak.

Gregory Moffitt, known by the pseudonym Young Bob and a former Turning Point UK activist, had been suspended from the group after controversies arose regarding derogatory comments he made about Tenconi.

The protest underscored tensions surrounding Nowak’s death and broader issues of race, policing, and immigration, while also highlighting the involvement of far-right groups in the mobilisation of public demonstrations. Authorities continue to investigate the violent episodes that marred the evening.