Temporary ban on concealing identities in Dover this weekend
Individuals found wearing face coverings without a legitimate reason will be asked to remove them
Kent Police is introducing temporary measures in Dover this weekend aimed at reducing the risk of disorder, coinciding with anticipated protests.
The new policing powers, under section 157 of the Crime and Policing Act 2026, will be in effect for 24 hours starting from 9am on Saturday 25th July 2026.
This order prohibits individuals from concealing their own or others' identities while in a designated area within Dover.
Included in the designated area are the Dover wards of Buckland, Tower Hamlets Town and Castle, Maxton and Elmsvale, St Radigunds, Tower Hamlets, Whitfield, Guston and St Margarets-At-Cliffe, Alkham and Capel-Le-Ferne, and Dover Downs and River.
Individuals found wearing face coverings without a legitimate reason will be asked to remove them or could be subject to arrest.
The temporary order comes in response to planned protests in the town scheduled for Saturday.
Officers say they have been in communication with the protest organisers and will maintain a visible presence throughout the day to reassure the community.