Southampton Demonstrations: Key individual networks (KINS) update from A/Inspector Richards, Southampton North Neighbourhood Policing Team – Monday 2 February 2026

“Dear Kins,

I wanted to provide you with an update following the protest activity, involving both protestors and counter‑protestors, that took place on Friday, 30 January 2026, outside The Highfield House Hotel.

For this demonstration, a Section 34 authorisation under the Anti‑Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 was put in place, enabling officers to use Section 35 dispersal powers if necessary. This allowed officers to intervene should behaviour have escalated beyond peaceful protest. On this occasion, dispersal powers were not required and no arrests were made.

We will continue to monitor the situation closely and take proportionate action to maintain public order while safeguarding individuals’ rights to protest.

If circumstances meet the legal threshold for additional conditions or enforcement, we will use those powers appropriately.

If you have any concerns or information you wish to share, you can contact us via:

If you have any information or concerns, please contact us via:

• Online reporting
  • 101 (non-emergency)
  • 999 (emergency only)

Contact your local policing team | Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary

Kindest regards

Yozanne

A/Inspector 21260 Yozanne Richards

Southampton North Neighbourhood Policing Team

Portswood Police Station “

The latest Southampton North NPT protest update.

Nadine

Nadine Johnson

HRA Communications

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