Anti-migrant activist Daniel Thomas, known as Danny Tommo, has been charged with criminal damage following an incident in which he was filmed appearing to slash an inflatable boat in the English Channel.
Thomas, 37, was also charged with failing to disclose the PIN for his mobile phone to police under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000. Hampshire Police confirmed the charges on Thursday evening.
The charges follow an allegation that a boat was damaged in the Channel while an emergency responder was on board. Thomas was arrested on Wednesday and has remained in police custody.
Footage shared online appeared to show Thomas approaching an inflatable vessel from a speedboat and using a knife to cut its side. A French rescue worker was reportedly aboard the vessel at the time.
Thomas has previously organised anti-immigration demonstrations in Britain and is the founder of the Patriot Platform group. He has become a prominent figure among activists campaigning against migrant crossings in the English Channel.
The incident occurred after migrants who had crossed the Channel from France were taken to Dover for processing. The boat involved was later approached by a French rescue service, according to reports.
Hampshire Police said Thomas was due to appear at Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court on Friday following the charges.
The case comes amid continuing debate in Britain over small-boat crossings from France. UK authorities have been working with French counterparts to address the crossings and the criminal networks involved in facilitating them.
Thomas has not been convicted of the offences. The charges will now be considered by the court as the legal process continues.