Show of Unity: Anti-Racism Rallies Outnumber Far-Right Mobs in UK

Anti-racism counter-protesters outnumbered far-right mobs in London and other UK cities, averting planned violence. With over 1,000 police officers deployed, rallies were largely peaceful. The UK government warned of potential further action. Many arrested individuals had prior convictions, and swift legal actions are being taken.

A massive turnout of anti-racism counter-protesters swarmed the streets of London and other UK cities to outnumber far-right violent mobs causing mayhem over the past week. Scotland Yard described the event as a "show of unity from communities".

Fears of violence at several planned extremist rallies targeting immigration lawyers and agencies across London and other cities abated as thousands of specialist police officers patrolled the streets. Counter-protesters waving placards reading "Smash Fascism & Racism" and "Stop the far right" turned out in hoards for peace marches. Despite relief over the peaceful outcome, the UK government cautioned of possible further far-right actions.

"Last night, more than 1,000 officers were deployed across the capital ready to respond to any scenes of disorder. Their efforts and the strength of unity demonstrated by London's communities resulted in a largely peaceful evening," said Metropolitan Police chief Mark Rowley. Dawn raids were carried out early Thursday morning to arrest suspected violent offenders from previous days.

"Those we've arrested aren't protestors, patriots, or decent citizens. They're thugs and criminals. Around 70 percent have previous convictions for weapon possession, violence, drugs, and other serious offences. Some have football banning orders. These are violent people taking to the streets under the guise of protest to engage in disorder," Rowley stated.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan thanked people who peacefully stood "united against racism and Islamophobia" and the "heroic police force" for their dedication.

"To those far-right thugs still intent on sowing hatred and division, you will never be welcome here," he wrote on X.

More than 400 people have been arrested since the initial clashes, sparked by false claims about a suspect in the fatal Southport stabbings. UK Policing Minister Diana Johnson noted the evening's calm but warned of potential future unrest.

A large number of those arrested face charges including violent disorder, racially aggravated harassment, and inciting racial hatred online. They have been fast-tracked for court sentencing as pledged by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

An inquest into the stabbing deaths of three young girls in Southport was opened and adjourned. Axel Rudakubana, 17, remains in custody charged with their murders and the attempted murder of ten others.

(With inputs from agencies.)