Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has directed police chiefs to take stronger action against protesters wearing balaclavas, as authorities prepare for potential unrest. This follows recent incidents where far-right groups, such as Patriot Platform, have used intimidating tactics during demonstrations. The Home Office has emphasized that increased police action is necessary to address these new strategies, particularly in light of recent protests that caused public disruption and concern. The recent unrest included incidents in Dover and Portsmouth, where far-right protesters blocked roads and attacked officials. In Dover, hundreds of masked demonstrators disrupted access to the port, while in Portsmouth, protesters clashed with police and RNLI volunteers, causing injuries and damage to official vehicles. No arrests were made in these incidents, despite police having the authority to declare protest areas where face coverings would be illegal. The government believes that protesters wearing balaclavas could have been arrested, but police did not act on this power. Patriot Platform is a group organized by Daniel Thomas, known as Danny Tommo, who is associated with Tommy Robinson. The group describes itself as an "army of patriots" aimed at opposing migration. The Home Secretary has stressed the importance of police using their full powers to prevent protesters from concealing their identities, which she says communicates a clear threat to the public. She emphasized that the use of balaclavas in these protests is particularly concerning due to the fear and aggression it conveys. In response to the Home Secretary’s directive, police chiefs have stated they are prepared to take swift and effective action against far-right groups if needed. They have outlined a more coordinated approach to intelligence gathering and planning, ensuring they are ready to respond proactively should further unrest occur. Meanwhile, the RNLI has advised its volunteers and staff not to wear the charity’s branding due to the abuse they have faced from anti-migrant protesters. The charity has issued security guidelines after being targeted for its role in rescuing migrants at sea.