Portsmouth protesters face arrest for wearing face coverings

Protesters in Portsmouth this weekend could be arrested for wearing face coverings, Hampshire Police has announced. The force will deploy new powers under the Crime and Policing Act 2025, stating the intention is to "allow peaceful protest and prevent violence".

The decision follows disorder in the city last weekend. A 42-year-old man, Del Leon Somerville of Paulsgrove, has been charged with violent disorder and assaulting a police constable. He is due to appear at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court on Saturday.

New Powers for Weekend Protests

The new policing powers will be in effect for protests within a designated area in Portsmouth between 10am on Saturday and 10am on Sunday. Anyone concealing their identity within this zone could face arrest. Assistant Chief Constable Paul Bartolomeo stated that the powers would be used "robustly to protect the local community as well as the right of others to peaceful protest".

Mr Bartolomeo added that the force had listened to community concerns about feeling intimidated by masked groups. He confirmed the powers would be applied "equally and impartially" to any groups attending the demonstrations.

National Context and Far-Right Groups

The move comes after Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood met with police leaders on Thursday. The meeting focused on ensuring readiness to address "far-right groups" aiming to intimidate communities. This discussion was prompted by events last Saturday, when masked individuals blocked road access to the Port of Dover.

Ms Mahmood commented on the "fear factor and obvious malign intent" communicated by such groups, noting that these scenes caused disruption. She indicated that lessons were being learned from these incidents.

Deputy Chief Constable Andy Mariner, the National Police Chiefs’ Council’s national lead for policing protests, confirmed that officers are prepared to use the powers to ban face coverings at anti-migration protests.

Last weekend, crowds gathered at Eastney Marina following the arrival of a dinghy. Hampshire Police reported that official vehicles were damaged and a small number of officers sustained injuries. Approximately 200 people were dispersed from the scene around 4am on Monday. Assistant Chief Constable Tony Rowlinson indicated that further arrests are anticipated as investigations continue into criminal damage and assaults.