An update from A/Inspector Yozanne Richards on the protest activity that took place over the weekend (on Sunday 26/10/25)

“Good morning,

I’m writing to provide an update regarding the protest activity that took place over the weekend.

For the first time in our history, we enacted Section 12 of the Public Order Act 1986 to help ensure the safety of both protesters and the wider public. This legislation enabled us to direct the route of the procession, allowing us to manage the event in a way that minimised disruption and upheld public order.

Officers worked diligently throughout the day and during the planning phase of what was a fast-moving and complex operation. A counter-protest also took place, and our teams implemented tactical measures to keep both groups safely apart. At one point, a temporary closure of part of Thomas Lewis Way was necessary to support the safe movement of the procession.

During the operation, a 45-year-old man from Southampton was arrested on suspicion of a public order offence. No further arrests were made.

We recognise that events of this nature can cause disruption to daily routines, travel, and local services. We’ve received positive feedback from the community regarding our partnership response, and officers will continue to engage with residents in the coming days and weeks.

We remain committed to ensuring public safety, facilitating the right to peaceful protest, minimising disruption to the wider community, and maintaining open and transparent communication.

We will continue to monitor developments closely in relation to any future planned activity and will provide updates accordingly.

Thank you again for your continued support.

Regards

Yozanne

A/Inspector 21260 Yozanne Richards

Southampton North Neighbourhood Policing Team

Portswood Police Station

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