Balaclava-clad Vigilantes and the Policing of Fear

The recent clashes in Portsmouth between far-right protesters and police officers have raised uncomfortable questions about the role of law enforcement in dealing with extremist groups. The use of batons and pepper spray to disperse masked vigilantes may seem a necessary measure, but it also highlights the challenges faced by authorities in balancing public safety with free speech.

Hundreds of protesters gathered in Portsmouth on Sunday night, vowing to prevent migrants from leaving the port. Chants of “send them back” and aggressive behavior towards police officers suggest a level of organization and coordination that cannot be ignored. The policing minister’s statement that officers had been injured as they repelled “organised aggression” is telling – it suggests authorities are struggling to distinguish between legitimate protests and extremist groups.

The lines between these two categories have become increasingly blurred, with some protesters wearing balaclavas to conceal their identities. This adds to the complexity of the situation, making it difficult for police to identify perpetrators. The involvement of far-right agitators like Daniel Thomas, closely linked to Tommy Robinson, is also a concern.

Thomas and his associates claim to promote “racism and thuggery,” but these are not empty words. They have been emboldened by a sense of impunity that comes from knowing they can count on a sympathetic audience. The fact that some politicians have failed to condemn these groups outright has only added fuel to the fire.

As the UK grapples with its own brand of far-right extremism, it’s worth recalling the lessons of history. In the 1970s and 1980s, similar extremist groups were allowed to fester on Britain’s streets, leading to widespread violence and intimidation. The government’s response then was characterized by indecision and a failure to take decisive action.

Today, however, there are some differences. Social media platforms have become a key factor in promoting far-right ideologies, and some politicians are willing to engage with extremist groups and listen to their grievances. This naivety about the nature of these movements is concerning.

To counter extremism effectively, authorities must improve intelligence gathering, share information between agencies, and take decisive action against those who promote hate speech or violence. Politicians must also speak out unequivocally against far-right groups and their ideologies.

The prime minister’s call for “countering fear with positivity and hope” is a welcome one, but it will take more than just words to address the underlying issues that have given rise to these extremist movements. We need a sustained effort to build trust between communities, promote inclusive dialogue, and challenge the narratives of hate spreading on social media.

Ultimately, policing is not just about containing violent protests – it’s about creating an environment where people feel safe to express their opinions without fear of intimidation or reprisal. As we move forward, one thing is clear: the UK cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past.