Tensions flared in Islington as rival protests against the accommodation of asylum seekers led to multiple arrests, prompting police intervention.
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As tensions rise, several demonstrators have found themselves in police custody following confrontations between rival groups protesting the use of a hotel for housing asylum seekers. The Metropolitan Police have stepped in, imposing strict conditions on the demonstrations outside the Thistle City Barbican Hotel in Islington, north London.
To prevent clashes, police have set up barriers to separate the opposing factions.
Protests unfold at Thistle City Barbican Hotel
The protests kicked off around 1 PM on August 2, 2025, with local residents rallying under the banner “Thistle Barbican needs to go – locals say no.” The group expressed their opposition to accommodating asylum seekers at the hotel.
Simultaneously, a counter-protest organized by Stand Up To Racism, featuring prominent figures like former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, aimed to promote solidarity with migrants.
Witnesses shared that individuals believed to be migrants were watching the protests from the hotel windows, with some even waving and blowing kisses to the demonstrators below.
By 3:30 PM, police reported that nine individuals had been arrested, with seven cited for suspected breaches of the Public Order Act.
UPDATE AT 15:30: Nine arrests have been made, including several under Public Order regulations,” the Metropolitan Police tweeted, reinforcing their presence as tensions flared. Officers established a perimeter around the protest zones, clearly designating areas for both the anti-asylum hotel protest and the counter-protest to minimize potential clashes.
Clashes and police intervention
As the situation escalated, a confrontation erupted when a man wearing an England football shirt was detained after allegedly clashing with police. Anti-fascist protesters attempted to block access to a junction outside the hotel, prompting officers to push through the crowd and enforce the established conditions.
“Those who don’t move will be arrested,” police warned through loudspeakers, signaling their intent to take action against any violations of the protest conditions. Officers were seen dragging demonstrators away, trying to restore order amid the growing hostility.
In a notable moment, a smaller group of protesters waved union flags and shouted slogans like “Get these scum off our streets,” while a larger contingent dressed in black chanted “We are anti-fascist.” Brief clashes erupted as masked protesters surged from a side street towards the rival group, necessitating police intervention to separate the factions.
Community response and future protests
These protests are a reflection of the increasing tensions surrounding asylum policies in the UK. Chief Superintendent Clair Haynes addressed the media, stating, “We have been in discussions with the organizers of both protests in recent days. Our officers will police without fear or favour, ensuring those exercising their right to protest can do so safely.”
Online groups have mobilized support for these demonstrations, with organizations like “Patriots of Britain” and “Together for the Children” backing the anti-asylum hotel protest. In Newcastle, another protest is set to take place outside The New Bridge Hotel, with counter-protests organized to challenge far-right rhetoric.
As the situation continues to evolve, authorities are remaining vigilant, preparing to manage any further protests related to asylum seekers in London and beyond. “We understand that there are strongly held views on all sides,” Haynes added, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public order while respecting the right to protest.
