World Immigration News

French aid groups complain of harassment by British anti-immigration vigilantes

Release Date: 2025-12-11
Media: RFI
Summary: Charities in northern France report increasing concern over British anti-immigration activists who have been travelling to French beaches and migrant camps to intimidate migrants and aid workers. Since the summer of 2024, activists have carried out around 10 such incidents, livestreaming themselves as they confront migrants and NGOs such as Doctors Without Borders.

In early December, three British men crossed the Channel specifically to conduct an “anti-migrant patrol,” shouting insults at presumed aid workers and accusing NGOs of facilitating an “invasion.” French organisations fear the situation may escalate.

The actions are linked to figures in the British far right. Le Monde identified participants such as Ryan Bridge of the nationalist group Raising the Colours and Danny Thomas, an associate of far-right activist Tommy Robinson. They have promoted the trips under the name “Operation Overlord,” soliciting donations and posting videos claiming to destroy dinghies used by migrants. UKIP has endorsed the activities and launched its own “Border Protection Team.”

French NGOs also report more dangerous incidents. In June, English-speaking men tried to force entry into a Calais aid centre. In September, four men carrying English and UK flags allegedly attacked migrants sleeping near Dunkirk and stole their belongings. A police complaint was filed, and prosecutors have opened a preliminary investigation for aggravated assault.

Charities warn they do not know how far the activists may go and are urging authorities to act.
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