Full Breakdown
Portsmouth Face-Covering Ban Leads to First Identity-Concealment Charge
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
- The charge stems from the anti-immigration march held on Saturday, September 12, 2026 in Portsmouth city centre. Police said the prosecution follows the use of powers under the Crime and Policing Act that prohibit face coverings at designated protest areas.
Background & Context
- 6 September 2026 – Hundreds gathered at Eastney Marina after a boat carrying about 120 migrants arrived. Police reported damage to Coastguard and Border Force vehicles and injuries to seven officers, prompting Hampshire Police to invoke Section 158 of the Crime and Policing Act, allowing officers to require removal of masks or any item used to conceal identity within a mapped protest zone.
- 5 September 2026 – Similar masked protests in Dover blocked road access to the port. Officials described both incidents as “thuggish” and “violent public disorder.”
Data & Statistics
- Approx. 200 protesters assembled at Eastney Marina on 6 September; a comparable number marched on 12 September.
- Seven officers were treated for injuries on 6 September; none were seriously hurt.
- Three individuals were arrested on 12 September:
- Timothy Miller – charged with concealing identity.
- David Kenny McNally, 33, of Winchester Road, Portsmouth – charged with wilful obstruction of a highway and attempted criminal damage; court date 29 October 2026.
- A 16-year-old from Waterlooville – arrested on suspicion of violent disorder; released on bail until 12 December 2026.
Official Statements & Responses
- Assistant Chief Constable Tony Rowlinson described the 6 September events as “violent public disorder” and warned that “arrests at the time are not always possible, especially where evidence may need to be reviewed to clearly identify who is responsible for offences.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “Where a minority of people try to take advantage of the situation to cause violence and disruption, it is right that we use all our policing powers robustly to protect the local community as well as the right of others to peaceful protest.” — Chief Constable Paul Bartolomeo
- “The reality of public order policing is that arrests at the time are not always possible, especially where evidence may need to be reviewed to clearly identify who is responsible for offences.” — Constable Tony Rowlinson
On-the-Ground Reports
- Protesters on 12 September marched from All Saints Church to Guildhall Square, chanting “stop the boats.”
- A man wearing a burkha was photographed in handcuffs after police ordered him to remove the covering.
What’s Next
- Timothy Miller is scheduled to appear again at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court on Monday, September 14, 2026.
- David Kenny McNally will appear on 29 October 2026.
- The 16-year-old remains on bail until 12 December 2026.
- Hampshire Police have released images of six men they wish to speak to and have asked the public to contact them with any information.
