MANCHESTER — Police arrested three individuals during a Britain First-led anti-migration demonstration in Manchester city center Thursday, as counter-protesters from groups including Resist Britain First and Stand Up to Racism Manchester assembled in response.

The counter-protesters began gathering after 11 a.m. in Piccadilly Gardens, where former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn spoke at a rally. Corbyn urged the crowd to stand against division, according to attendees.

Manchester City Council leader Bev Craig also addressed the counter-demonstrators. She declared Britain First unwelcome in the city and called on residents to unite. “Send a clear message that hate has no place in our city,” Craig said.

Greater Manchester Police issued the dispersal order covering the city center shortly before the events kicked off. The order, which allows officers to break up groups and seize items, runs until 8 p.m. Police reported no major injuries but made the arrests amid rising tensions between the two sides.

Britain First, known for its far-right stance on immigration, organized the protest to oppose what it calls uncontrolled migration. Organizers claimed hundreds attended their event near the counter-protest site. Counter-protesters, outnumbering the main group in some estimates, chanted slogans and held signs promoting tolerance.

Officers separated the factions with barriers and a heavy presence of uniformed personnel. A GMP spokesperson said the arrests stemmed from public order offenses, though specifics were not immediately released. “We are committed to keeping everyone safe while upholding the right to peaceful protest,” the spokesperson added.

Craig’s comments echoed broader local opposition to the demonstration. In a statement, she highlighted Manchester’s history as a diverse, inclusive city. The council has previously clashed with far-right groups attempting similar events.

Piccadilly Gardens, a popular public square, served as the focal point for the counter-rally. Corbyn’s appearance drew cheers from supporters waving Palestinian flags and anti-racism banners. His speech lasted about 20 minutes, focusing on solidarity against what he described as rising fascism.

As the afternoon wore on, police monitored dispersal under the order. Businesses in the area shuttered early, and traffic snarled around key roads like Mosley Street and Portland Street. Eyewitnesses described a tense but contained atmosphere, with no reports of widespread violence.

The events follow a pattern of competing protests across the UK amid heated debates over immigration policy. Similar clashes occurred in London and Birmingham last month. Greater Manchester Police said they prepared for weeks, deploying over 100 officers.

By late afternoon, both groups began to disperse. Britain First posted videos online showing their turnout, while counter-protesters celebrated a strong showing on social media. GMP confirmed the dispersal order would lift at 8 p.m., with no further incidents reported as of press time.