UK anti-migrant vigilante groups expand as police face pressure to respond
The Guardian identified at least 28 groups formed in the UK since summer 2025, with recent blockades near Dover and Portsmouth prompting calls for police action.
At least 28 anti-migrant vigilante groups have formed in the UK over the past 18 months, according to analysis by The Guardian, as authorities confront a rise in unauthorised patrols, harassment and attempts to disrupt Channel crossings.
The analysis identified 31 active groups with established initiation dates, of which 28 were reportedly formed since last summer. The figures were compiled from online activity, domain registrations and media reports, rather than an official government count.
Recent activity included road blockades near Dover and Portsmouth. Members of the far-right Patriot Platform reportedly disrupted traffic to and from Dover, while Kent police later acknowledged officers had failed to act on calls made the previous evening.
In Portsmouth, about 200 black-clad men reportedly gathered after 120 asylum seekers rescued from a dinghy were brought ashore. Roads were blocked and several police officers were allegedly assaulted.
The Guardian’s classification covers groups that took enforcement into their own hands while opposing migrants or asylum seekers. It excludes conventional protests and far-right political parties. The British Security Project disputes being described as either vigilante or anti-migrant, saying it supports lawful and accountable community protection.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has urged police to curb the groups’ activities and make full use of their powers. The National Police Chiefs’ Council warned that private enforcement can be dangerous and compromise police investigations.
Experts from the University of Oxford and Hope Not Hate linked the growth to distrust in authorities, far-right mobilisation and intimidation. The Guardian’s analysis cited groups including Scots Active, Raise the Colours and Belfast Nightwatch First Division.
