Two British men were arrested near Calais after attempting to participate in a banned anti-migrant rally. French police intervened on Sunday night as the pair live-streamed their actions online.
The Pas-de-Calais prefecture confirmed that the duo were detained for inciting hatred and plotting violence, based on their social media activity. French prosecutors condemned their behaviour amid rising tensions related to migrant protests in the region.
A blanket ban on public gatherings from Calais to Dunkirk was imposed weeks before the planned protest. This ban has been extended until Wednesday due to concerns over potential disturbances. French officials warned, “British nationals linked to anti-migrant groups stopped by police will be swiftly sent back to the border.”
The government described these groups as promoting “xenophobic and anti-immigration ideology” that threatens public order.
France’s domestic security agency, the DGSI, increased its presence along the northern coast, supporting Police Nationale and gendarmes in monitoring British individuals suspected of causing trouble. A senior source stated, “Plain-clothes DGSI officers were deployed along the northern coast, hunting British agitators to prevent any mass invasion.”
The incident was initiated by Daniel Thomas, a banned British protest leader and ex-convict, who boasted about organising a “D-Day style invasion” to block migrant boats. His so-called “Operation Overlord” aimed to bring 15,000 “proud Englishmen” to France. However, only a small group appeared, mostly waving flags on a beach distant from migrant camps.
Thomas is believed to have entered France via Belgium despite his ban. Local official Alain Boonefaes criticised the group, saying, “These men have no right to come and try to enforce order in France. They should sort things out in Britain, not intimidate people here.”
Authorities remain vigilant and continue to monitor social media for any new protest attempts. The ban on gatherings remains effective until Wednesday.
Originally published by UKNIP.
