London is preparing for one of the largest and most complex policing operations in recent years as tens of thousands are expected to attend two major demonstrations taking place on the same day in the capital.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that live facial recognition (LFR) technology will be deployed at a rally organised by Tommy Robinson, but not at a nearby pro-Palestinian march marking Nakba Day, which commemorates Palestinian displacement and loss during the creation of Israel and the Arab-Israeli war in 1948. The decision has prompted criticism and fuelled claims of “two-tier policing” from political figures and commentators.
The ‘Unite the Kingdom’ rally, led by Robinson, is expected to attract up to 50,000 people. On the same day, a separate pro-Palestinian demonstration is forecast to draw around 30,000 participants. Police said the use of LFR at the Robinson rally follows intelligence suggesting a potential threat to public safety from some attendees.
The technology works by linking live camera feeds to a watchlist of wanted individuals. Facial images are converted into biometric data and compared in real time, with alerts sent to officers if a match is identified. Authorities stressed that the system will not be used within protest routes, assembly points or rally sites themselves, but in surrounding areas in the London borough of Camden.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner James Harman described the operation as “unprecedented in recent years” and said it would involve “the most assertive use of our policing powers.” He added that significant resources would be deployed to keep rival groups apart and ensure public safety, noting that routes and locations had been carefully planned to minimise the risk of intimidation between opposing sides.
The policing effort will cost approximately £4.5 million (€5 million) and include around 4,000 officers, with 660 drafted in from forces across England and Wales. Specialist units such as mounted police, dog teams, traffic officers and aerial support will be deployed, alongside armoured vehicles known as SandCats, which will be used for the first time and kept on standby.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp stated: “LFR is a powerful tool for catching wanted criminals. It should only be used for this purpose and in all relevant settings.
“In previous years, Nakba Day protests have included expressions of support for banned terrorist organisations such as Hamas, which is a criminal offence. This must be stopped and dealt with to avoid accusations of two-tier policing.”
The policing measures have drawn political criticism. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said: “The Unite the Kingdom rally on Saturday should be treated no differently to the pro-Palestinian march on the same day. The fact that two-tier justice is being applied against patriotic Brits is disgraceful.”
Further controversy has arisen after the UK government barred several foreign activists from entering the country ahead of the rally. Among those affected are Polish MEP Dominik Tarczyński, Dutch commentator Eva Vlaardingerbroek, Spanish influencer Ada Lluch, and U.S.-based Joey Mannarino. Authorities said their presence was “not considered conducive to the public good,” citing concerns over public order and previous activities.
With an FA Cup Final also taking place at Wembley on the same day, officials warned that the combination of large crowds and heightened tensions significantly increases the risk of disorder.
