London, UK — Home Office Minister Lord David Hanson has issued a stern warning to those planning far-right protests this weekend, emphasizing that police are closely monitoring their activities. The warning comes amid heightened tensions following violent unrest related to the Southport stabbing attack.
Demonstrations are anticipated in various cities across the UK, from Glasgow to Dover, in response to the murder of three primary school-aged girls at a dance studio in Southport on Monday. The subsequent violence has led to over 100 arrests and sparked fears of further disorder.
Lord Hanson told BBC Breakfast that while peaceful protest is acceptable, recent events have shown organized groups engaging in criminal activities, such as attacking police and damaging property. He stated, “We are reminding those who may be planning to commit such crimes that we are watching them through intelligence-led policing.”
The use of facial recognition technology by the police to identify individuals involved in planning or participating in these protests has been confirmed. Lord Hanson added, “There is potential for violence, and we will be watching closely.”
Security concerns are also impacting religious institutions. The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) reported that many mosques are hiring additional security due to threats of targeted attacks. MCB Secretary-General Zara Mohammed expressed “deep-seated anxiety” and “palpable fear” within the community, urging mosques to cooperate with law enforcement to ensure safety.
Protests are reportedly scheduled in cities including Liverpool, Glasgow, Lancaster, Blackburn, Newcastle, Birmingham, Sunderland, Dover, Middlesbrough, Leeds, and Hull.
In response to the potential for further violence, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced that groups inciting disorder will face restrictions similar to those imposed on football hooligans. This includes the issuance of Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBO) to restrict the movements of offenders.
The controversy surrounding the protests has also drawn criticism from former counter-terrorism police chief Neil Basu, who accused Reform UK leader Nigel Farage of exacerbating the situation with a provocative video. Farage defended his actions, stating he was simply expressing concern over the state of law and order.
Civil rights group Big Brother Watch has raised concerns about the use of facial recognition technology, describing it as “alarming” for democracy. Director Silkie Carlo criticized the technology as “dangerously inaccurate” and lacking a clear legal basis in the UK.
As the situation unfolds, authorities are emphasizing their commitment to maintaining public safety and order.