LONDON: Six people were arrested in southern England on Monday after an anti-immigration protest became hostile and protesters clashed with police, authorities said.
Around 200 protesters gathered in Gosport on September 22, expecting a migrant boat to arrive on the southern coast. The demonstration reflected growing anger in some coastal communities over the continuing arrival of asylum seekers who attempt the dangerous journey across the English Channel, reported by Hurriyet Daily News.
The protest came as a small dinghy carrying 51 migrants spent about 36 hours at sea while travelling from France towards Britain. According to the UK’s volunteer coastguard, the vessel was at sea for an unusually long period before finally reaching British waters.
However, the boat did not land in Gosport as protesters had anticipated. Instead, it reached Dover, another coastal town in southeast England.
French authorities said the boat was “ill-suited” for such a dangerous journey and reported that the migrants had refused assistance. Officials said those on board appeared determined to continue their journey to the United Kingdom despite the risks.
The Channel crossing has become increasingly difficult as French and British authorities tighten efforts to prevent small boats from reaching Britain. In response, migrants have reportedly begun using larger dinghies and alternative routes.
The latest incident highlights the growing tension along the English coast, where the arrival of migrant boats has become both a humanitarian concern and a source of political and public anger.
For those making the journey, however, the Channel remains a perilous stretch of water crossed in the hope of finding safety and a new life in Britain.
