6 Arrested as Anti-Immigration Protest Sparks Clashes in Manchester

Thousands gathered in Manchester on Saturday for an anti-immigration demonstration organized by the far-right group Britain First, prompting significant disruption and at least six arrests, according to Greater Manchester Police.

The rally, led by the anti-immigration party, called for preserving British culture, dissolving NATO and imposing tougher penalties for crime. Protesters waved English and British flags alongside Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish banners. Chants included calls to “Stop the boats” and other slogans targeting immigration policies, as well as criticism directed at Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

A counter-demonstration organized by left-wing groups took place simultaneously in the city center, with organizers urging participants to oppose what they described as racist rhetoric. Police established cordons between the opposing groups to prevent direct confrontation.

Greater Manchester Police confirmed that six individuals were arrested on charges including assaulting an emergency worker, public order offenses, breach of the peace and violation of dispersal orders.

Assistant Chief Constable Rick Jackson said authorities deployed an additional 50 officers to support mounted police units in order to maintain safety and manage crowd control throughout the protests.

The demonstrations reflect ongoing tensions in the United Kingdom over immigration policy and national identity, as public debate intensifies and political divisions deepen ahead of future electoral contests.