Two British nationals were recently detained in northern France on suspicion of planning to join a banned far-right protest, according to French prosecutors. The two men, aged 35 and 50, were arrested near Calais after broadcasting live videos online, prosecutors revealed.
The suspects were arrested on charges of “incitement to hatred” and “participation in a group with the intent to prepare acts of violence,” said prosecutor Cécile Gressier. This comes after French authorities took measures to prevent UK-based activists from joining anti-migrant protests planned for the weekend.
Far-Right Protest Plans in Northern France
The individuals were arrested following a routine identity check. Authorities say the men were posting a video on social media that contained discriminatory comments. The video appeared to signal their intent to join a protest in northern France, an area known for its role in assisting asylum seekers crossing the English Channel by boat.
The demonstration, known as “Operation Overlord,” was banned by French authorities due to its connection to far-right ideologies and its inflammatory rhetoric. The French police had previously warned they would deport anyone arriving from the UK intending to participate in such demonstrations.
The Ongoing Tensions Around Migration in France
The incident highlights ongoing tensions over migration, especially in regions near Calais, where many migrants gather before attempting to cross the English Channel to reach the UK. Social media platforms have been a major venue for organizing these anti-migration protests, with calls for action circulating widely.
The arrest of the two British nationals adds to France’s ongoing efforts to curb far-right extremism and anti-migrant activities. French authorities are focusing on preventing further violence and hate speech related to the protests, which continue to stir debate across the country.
