Man charged with concealing identity at Portsmouth protest
Police in Portsmouth have charged two men following protests involving anti-migrant and anti-racism groups. Authorities utilized new powers under the Crime and Policing Act to arrest individuals for concealing their identities with face coverings.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing tensions regarding immigration policy in the UK and the increasing use of stricter policing powers to manage public demonstrations.
Image source, PA Image caption, Rival sets of protesters were kept apart by police in Portsmouth's Guidhall Square
A man has been charged with concealing his identity at a protest in Portsmouth, after police warned they would arrest demonstrators using face masks and coverings.
Several hundred anti-migrant protesters marched through the city centre while anti-racism groups also made their way to Guildhall Square on Saturday.
Hampshire Police said Timothy Miller, 76, of Sherwood Avenue in Hedge End was charged with wearing or using an item to conceal identity at a protest. He is due before Portsmouth magistrates on Monday.
David McNally, 33, of Winchester Road in Portsmouth, was also charged with obstructing the highway and attempted criminal damage. He is due in court on 29 October.
Also covering this story
One other newsroom covered this event. We read that version too.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in