Full Breakdown
Portsmouth Anti-Migrant Protest Turns Violent; Police Seek Six Suspects
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On September 6 a crowd of roughly 200 gathered at Eastney Marina after a small boat carrying asylum seekers arrived from the Channel. The demonstration escalated into violent disorder. Seven Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary officers were treated on-scene for injuries, and police, Coastguard and Border Force vehicles were damaged. The force has released images of six men it believes can assist its investigation.
Background & Context
The protest followed the arrival of a dinghy that had set off from near Cherbourg, west of the usual Calais departure points. Similar anti-immigration demonstrations had occurred at the Port of Dover the previous day, heightening tensions in southern England. The government condemned the “intimidating and thuggish behaviour” while reaffirming the right to peaceful protest.
Timeline
- September 6 – Anti-migrant protest at Eastney Marina turns violent; officers injured, property damaged.
- September 12 – Counter-protest by anti-racism groups scheduled in Portsmouth city centre.
- September 16 – First charged suspect to appear at Portsmouth Crown Court (scheduled).
- December 12 – Bail for a 16-year-old arrested on suspicion of violent disorder expires.
Data & Statistics
- Approx. 200 demonstrators present.
- 7 police officers injured (none seriously).
- Vehicles of police, Coastguard and Border Force damaged.
- 6 men photographed and released for public assistance.
- Del Leon Somerville, 42, of Paulsgrove, charged with violent disorder and assaulting a constable.
- 16-year-old from Waterlooville arrested on suspicion of violent disorder; released on bail until December 12.
- Additional arrests: a 76-year-old from Southampton for concealing identity, and a 33-year-old from Portsmouth for obstruction and attempted criminal damage.
Official Statements & Responses
Police noted that arrests can be limited when evidence requires review and that prosecutions will be pursued where feasible. The government described the behaviour as “intimidating and thuggish,” while also affirming the right to lawful demonstration. Police appealed for anyone recognising the six men to contact the force via 101 or the online reference 44260435943.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If you break the law we will take action against you and where it is feasible to do so seek a prosecution.” — Tony Rowlinson, assistant chief
- “Clearly events on Sunday evening were not peaceful protest, rather violent public disorder.” — Tony Rowlinson, assistant chief
On-the-Ground Reports
Riot police formed a line to keep opposing groups apart and deployed a Section 60AA order, granting powers to require removal of face coverings.
Why It Matters
The incident underscores the difficulty of balancing the democratic right to protest with public-order policing when immigration issues provoke strong emotions. Damage to emergency-service vehicles and assaults on officers raise concerns about frontline safety and the risk of escalation at future demonstrations.
What’s Next
The first charged suspect is scheduled to appear at Portsmouth Crown Court on September 16. The 16-year-old remains on bail until December 12, when the court will review his case. Police continue to seek information on the six photographed men to advance the investigation.