Masked protesters block access to Port of Dover, causing traffic delays
Masked demonstrators halted traffic on roads to the Port of Dover on Saturday, prompting police engagement and a four-mile jam, while officials linked the protest to anti-immigration sentiment.
A group of masked men blocked the main road leading to the Port of Dover on Saturday, prompting the port to halt all traffic and police to engage with the demonstrators. Video posted online showed several dozen individuals in black clothing and balaclavas linking arms across the roadway and chanting “stop the boats.”
The National Highways agency reported that the blockage created a traffic jam extending about four miles (6.4 km) in the morning, though one road to the port was reopened by late morning. P&O Ferries said passengers who missed their ferry would be rebooked on the next available crossing.
Local Conservative councilor Chris Vinson described the protest as related to illegal migration, noting that while no violence was observed, the presence of men in paramilitary-style gear was “extremely intimidating.”
The incident follows previous anti-immigration demonstrations in Dover, a town that handles millions of passengers and freight vehicles each year. Labour MP Mike Tapp condemned the disruption, urging the protesters to leave and emphasizing that small-boat crossings have fallen by more than 40% compared with the previous year.