Downing Street Condemns Peckham Protests Over Illegal Immigrant Removals

A Downing Street spokeswoman denounced the protests in Peckham, south London, and Margate, Kent, which aimed to hinder the transfer of illegal immigrants to the Bibby Stockholm barge in Dorset as “unacceptable.”

Metropolitan Police reported the arrest of 45 individuals after officers were assaulted while trying to prevent protesters from obstructing a coach picking up illegal immigrants from a Best Western hotel in Peckham.

A large group of individuals, many with covered faces, encircled the coach and sat on the road to impede the transfer.

Several police officers were dispatched to the scene, engaging in scuffles with the protesters, though no serious violence occurred.

The demonstrators chanted “No borders, no nations, stop deportations” as they gathered around the coach.

It was evident that a tire on one of the coaches had been slashed.

The demonstrations occurred a week after protesters in Margate successfully halted the Home Office’s plans to relocate another group of illegal immigrants to the Bibby Stockholm barge.

However, the Downing Street spokeswoman condemned the disruption caused and emphasized the need for unhindered work by the Home Office staff.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan of the Met expressed concern over officers being assaulted during their duties to enforce the law in Peckham.

He mentioned that while some officers reported being assaulted, thankfully, none were seriously harmed.

The Home Office has not confirmed whether they will attempt the transfer again or abandon the movement from Peckham to Dorset.

Home Secretary James Cleverly vowed to continue the removal of individuals with no legal right to stay in the country, despite the opposition from various groups trying to prevent their efforts.

He emphasized that the government remains committed to their approach despite the protests and challenges they face.

These developments come amidst a surge in illegal immigrants crossing the English Channel this year, with a record number of individuals making the perilous journey.

Last year saw a significant decrease in arrivals compared to the record numbers in the previous year.

Since the implementation of the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Act, a notable number of illegal immigrants have attempted the journey.

The government is firm in its stance to deter illegal immigration and stop individuals from exploiting the system to reside in the country unlawfully.

The National Crime Agency announced charges against a Sudanese national in connection with the tragic deaths of illegal immigrants crossing the Channel.

PA Media contributed to this report.