Force’s protest policing vindicated

Kent Police’s actions in dealing with a migration protest in Dover that ended in disorder were ‘proportionate’, ‘justifiable’ and ‘appropriate’, an independent review has found.

The unity march, which occurred on January 30, 2016, was held to highlight the current migrant situation in France and the risk migrants cause to lorry drivers entering the UK.

Throughout the day some protestors from both the march and a counter protest made determined efforts to confront each other.

There was some disorder, minor damage to property and 17 arrests were made.

The area’s police and crime commissioner (PCC) Ann Barnes committed to undertaking a review of events after receiving numerous complaints from residents.

Carried out by National Police Coordination Centre (NPoCC) Assistant Chief Constable Chris Sheed, the review determined that “to ban the march or impose conditions would have been inappropriate” and concluded while “there were some areas that could be improved on” the force’s operation was “effective and well-led.”

Mr Sheed said some protestors were intent on disorder and violence and that “restraint and professionalism” shown [by officers] was to be commended.

“Despite a deteriorating intelligence picture, the march couldn’t justifiably be banned and Kent Constabulary instigated a significant operation consisting of nearly 400 officers and staff to mitigate the risks identified,” he said.

“This was a challenging day for Kent Police where the officers and staff acquitted themselves well”.

Mrs Barnes said: “I am pleased NPoCC’s independent review found Kent Police did a good job in extremely difficult circumstances. We should all be grateful for our officers’ dedication to protect us.