Daniel Thomas, an anti-migrant activist known to his supporters as Danny Tommo, has pleaded not guilty to charges of criminal damage following an incident in which he was recorded slashing a boat with a knife while an emergency responder was on board. The event was live-streamed on Thursday, leading to Thomas’s arrest shortly thereafter.

In addition to the charge of causing criminal damage, Thomas faces an accusation of failing to disclose the personal identification number (PIN) to his phone, an alleged offence connected to the investigation.

Thomas appeared in court without the support of bail, as the judge denied his request. During the hearing, Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, also known by his activist name Tommy Robinson, a far-right figure, attended and publicly showed his support for Thomas.

Authorities have not released further details regarding the circumstances that led to the boat being targeted or the motivations behind the act. The case remains under investigation as it proceeds through the legal system.