On September 13. 2025, approximately 110,000 to 150,000 people gathered in central London for a large anti-migration protest led by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, according to the Metropolitan Police. Organizers claimed the turnout was over one million, citing drone footage — the demonstration, titled ‘Unite the Kingdom,’ called for stricter immigration policies and focused on slogans like ‘Stop the Boats’ and ‘Send Them Home.’

Clashes and Injuries

Demonstrators and counter-protesters clashed with police, leading to violence. The police reported 26 officers injured, four of them seriously. Among the injuries were broken teeth, a concussion, and a head injury. Twenty-five people were arrested, and police said more arrests could follow. ‘This is only the beginning,’ the Metropolitan Police stated, adding that investigations into the violence would continue in the coming weeks.

Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist condemned the violence, calling it ‘unacceptable,’ and warned that police would take ‘decisive measures’ against those involved in the clashes. The police operation was declared to be ‘drawing to a close’ as London returned to normal.

International Participation

The event drew international attention, with participants carrying flags from the U.S., Israel, and other countries. A number of right-wing figures from abroad attended, including members of far-right political parties from Germany, France, and Denmark. Some demonstrators wore ‘MAGA’ hats associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Elon Musk, the tech billionaire, was also involved, making a virtual appearance. His comments, which included the phrase ‘Either fight back, or you die,’ were widely criticized as ‘inappropriate’ and ‘disgusting.’

Participants also commemorated the recent killing of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk in the U.S., with banners and photos displayed at the event. The demonstration was described as the ‘ultimate stand for those who refuse to let their culture be sidelined,’ according to promotional material.

Policing and Costs

The Metropolitan Police deployed 4,000 officers, including 660 from other forces in England and Wales. The operation included helicopters, drones, dogs, and armored vehicles. The cost of the policing operation was estimated at £4.5 million, with £1.7 million spent on bringing in additional officers. Live facial recognition technology was used in Camden to check attendees against a watch list. Police warned that any hate speech would be met with immediate intervention.

This is the second major ‘Unite the Kingdom’ event in recent months. A similar demonstration in September 2024 drew up to 150,000 people and saw 22 arrests and clashes between groups. At that time, British Labour leader Keir Starmer criticized the event as ‘plastic patriotism.’

According to the Independent, the event was billed as a defense of ‘capitalism, democracy, and faith.’ Prominent speakers included former SAS instructor Ant Middleton and tech mogul Elon Musk. The demonstration was organized under the banner of ‘Free Speech Festival,’ with Robinson and other speakers emphasizing the importance of protecting cultural identity and free speech.