London, September 14(HS): London witnessed a massive and contentious demonstration as far-right activist Tommy Robinson led the “Unite the Kingdom” rally through central London on Saturday, attracting an estimated 110,000 to 150,000 participants. The event, framed by Robinson as a “freedom of speech festival,” escalated into violent confrontations between some protesters and the Metropolitan Police, resulting in injuries to 26 officers, four seriously hurt.

The police described the rally as largely lawful in intent but marred by deliberate violence, including projectiles thrown at officers, assaults, and attempts by some protesters to breach secured zones. The Metropolitan Police deployed approximately 1,500 officers, including reinforcements from other forces, to manage the crowds and maintain order between the main rally and a 5,000-strong counter-protest organized by Stand Up To Racism.

Tech billionaire Elon Musk made a surprise appearance via video link from Whitehall, urging protesters to resist what he described as “leftist aggression” and calling for a dissolution of Parliament and a change of government. Prominent right-wing personalities such as Katie Hopkins addressed the crowd, while at the counter-protest, MPs like Diane Abbott spoke out against racism and violence.

Clashes erupted as police attempted to enforce separation between the opposing groups, with officers using batons, horses, and dogs to contain disorder. There were reports of protesters scaling fences and scaffolding, putting themselves and others at risk. Several arrests were made in connection with offenses including violent disorder and assault.

Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, criticized UK courts for prioritizing the rights of undocumented migrants over local community interests and paid tribute to recently assassinated US conservative activist Charlie Kirk, rallying crowds to his anti-immigration cause.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar