UK far-right activist arrested after migrant boat slashed in English Channel

A 37-year-old far-right activist, Daniel Thomas, has been arrested in connection with slashing an inflatable dinghy in the English Channel. Police apprehended him on Wednesday on suspicion of criminal damage with intent to endanger life and endangering the safety of a vessel. A video posted on social media appears to show Thomas damaging the empty boat, which had a rescue services member aboard. This incident highlights a new confrontational tactic by anti-immigration agitators attempting to prevent migrant boats from landing. The activist remained in custody on Thursday.

Far-right activist Daniel Thomas, 37, was arrested on Wednesday evening in connection with an incident on Tuesday afternoon in the English Channel. Thomas, also known as “Danny Tommo,” is suspected of criminal damage with intent to endanger life and endangering the safety of a ship after live-streaming himself slashing an empty dinghy with a knife. The dinghy had just arrived in Dover carrying approximately 50 migrants from Normandy, and a French coastguard official was still on board the vessel when Thomas approached in a speedboat. Thomas, founder of the Patriot Platform group, stated his intention was to prevent the boat from being used again. He remains in custody.

Far-right activist Daniel Thomas has been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage with intent to endanger life after allegedly slashing a dinghy in the English Channel. The 37-year-old, who has no fixed abode, was filmed livestreaming himself damaging the boat while a French rescue worker was onboard. Hampshire and Isle of Wight constabulary arrested him on suspicion of destroying ships or fixed platforms, endangering their safety, and criminal damage. Thomas, associated with Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, leads the anti-immigration movement Patriot Platform. His arrest occurred amidst renewed focus on the Home Office's handling of small-boat arrivals, following two recent uncontrolled landings.