Hordes of men wearing balaclavas have caused traffic chaos after blocking Dover port as part of a demonstration believed to be responding to immigration concerns
Hordes of masked protesters have brought traffic around the Port of Dover to a total standstill after setting up a blockade this morning (Saturday).
Hundreds of demonstrators dressed entirely in black and wearing balaclavas were seen marching along major roads and occupying a roundabout near the Kent ferry terminal. Traffic was totally ground to a halt in both directions on the A20 between the A256 York Street and the A2 Jubilee Way, with National Highways reporting four miles of congestion and delays of up to 30 minutes.
Dramatic videos circulating online showed the masked crowd, believed to be part of an anti-immigration group, walking in the middle of the road and preventing vehicles from entering or leaving the port, while Kent Police confirmed officers were at the scene attempting to speak to those involved.
A force spokesperson said: “Officers are aware of a protest currently taking place. Officers are in attendance and engaging with protesters.”
The Port of Dover said the “ongoing public order incident” was affecting all routes in and out of the port, as well as roads around the town.
A spokesperson said: “Traffic going in and out of the port is stopped due to an ongoing public order incident. We are in contact with Kent Police to understand the situation. This situation is impacting our local community and our customers, so of course we are hoping for a swift resolution.”
Ferry passengers were warned they could miss their scheduled crossings because of the disruption.
P&O Ferries said: “Please be advised that access to the Port of Dover is currently restricted. If you miss your sailing, we will get you onto the next when you reach our check-in.”
The demonstration also reportedly forced the cancellation of a local Parkrun.
Mike Tapp, the Labour MP for Dover and Deal, blasted the protesters as “idiots” and told them to “get a job”.
He wrote on Facebook: “Parkrun cancelled and port access disrupted. I am fed up with idiots coming to Dover to cause disruption. I bet if you asked any one of those ‘protesters’ they wouldn’t know small boat crossings are down by 40% and we are working hard to fix the mess. Go home, enjoy your weekend/get a job.”