Thirteen arrested over violent Tommy Robinson rally

Offices were hit with bricks and eggs at an election rally in May

Far-right activist Tommy Robinson is knwon for his anti-Islam views. Reuters

Thirteen people have been arrested after violence broke out at an election rally held by the British far-right activist known as Tommy Robinson.

The incident took place in Oldham, northern England, in May earlier this year ahead of the European Parliament elections.

Tensions flared when a large group of men calling themselves the Muslim Defence League (MDL) came into contact with supporters of the anti-Islam activist, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley Lennon.

Officers were hit by bricks and eggs as they attempted to keep the two groups apart.

Alongside announcing the arrests on Wednesday, British police released images of 26 additional people they want to speak to in connection with the incident.

Chief Superintendent Neil Evans from Greater Manchester Police said the force was treating May’s incident “with the upmost seriousness”.

“We understand and respect the right to peaceful protest and counter-protest. However, we will not tolerate it when this crosses into criminal behaviour,” he said.

“Accordingly, we can and will respond when that line is crossed.”