Two men and a teenage boy were arrested in Portsmouth on Saturday during a far-right protest against immigration. This marks the second weekend in a row that far-right activists have gathered in the city.
One of those arrested was a 76-year-old man from Southampton, detained on suspicion of concealing his identity. Hampshire and Isle of Wight constabulary had previously warned that protesters wearing face coverings could face arrest under the Crime and Policing Act.
A 33-year-old man from Portsmouth was arrested on suspicion of obstructing a highway. Additionally, a 16-year-old boy, also from Portsmouth, was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder in connection with scenes from last Sunday.
Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones stated that, with a few exceptions, the protest was peaceful and conducted in accordance with the new law requiring faces to be uncovered. She added that the police ensured the power to direct people to remove face coverings was implemented equally and impartially.
The protests followed the interception last Sunday of a small boat carrying 140 people seeking asylum, which was heading towards Portsmouth. Last weekend, hundreds of far-right activists reportedly tried to prevent those onboard from being processed.
Separately, Del Leon Somerville, 42, of Paulsgrove, Portsmouth, appeared in court on Saturday charged with violent disorder and assaulting a police constable in the execution of their duty, in relation to last weekend's demonstration. Assistant Chief Constable Tony Rowlinson indicated that Somerville's arrest was expected to be the first of several.