Man to appear in court over violent disorder at Portsmouth anti-migrant protest
Court appearance coincides with planned protests and counter demonstrations
Last updated 12th Sep 2026
A 42-year-old man is set to face Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court following his arrest during last weekend's anti-migrant protests.
Del Leon Somerville, from Paulsgrove, has been charged with violent disorder and assaulting a police officer.
The hearing coincides with more planned demonstrations by the South Coast Patriots in Portsmouth city centre this Saturday afternoon.
"Assistant Chief Constable Tony Rowlinson stated that they anticipate more arrests following Somerville's, intending to send a clear warning to potential future offenders."
Simultaneously, Stand Up to Racism will hold a counter-protest in response.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood recently met with police chiefs to ensure that authorities are prepared to act swiftly against intimidation attempts by far-right groups.
Last Sunday night, interactions at Eastney Marina following a dinghy's arrival included damages to official vehicles and injuries to police officers.
Efforts to disperse approximately 200 people concluded around 4 am on Monday morning.
The previous Saturday witnessed masked men obstructing road access to the Dover port, sparking condemnation across political lines.
Ms Mahmood highlighted, "The apparel and conduct in these protests heighten communal anxiety, distinguishing these incidents from typical demonstrations."
Hampshire Police cautions that protestors concealing their identity this weekend may face arrest, as new powers under the Crime and Policing Act 2025 will be enforced to maintain peace and deter violence.
These measures will apply from 10 am on Saturday until 10 am on Sunday within a police-mapped area, targeting individuals obscuring their identity.