World News

Far-right activist Daniel Thomas arrested after Channel dinghy slashed

Police detained the activist following a livestream showing a boat being attacked while a worker was onboard.

Updated Sep 24, 2026 · 15:27 UTC4 reports

The short version

British police arrested 37-year-old activist Daniel Thomas on Wednesday on suspicion of maritime offences and criminal damage with intent to endanger life.[The Guardian · Al Jazeera]
The detention followed a video Thomas filmed showing him using a blade on an inflatable dinghy in the English Channel while a rescue or coastguard worker was on board.[The Guardian · Al Jazeera]
Thomas told his supporters he wanted to prevent the dinghy from being returned to France and reused.[BBC News]
Far-right figure Tommy Robinson claimed Thomas was detained for trying to stop an invasion, while campaign group Stand Up To Racism condemned the incident.[BBC News · The Guardian · Al Jazeera]

Daniel Thomas was arrested on Wednesday evening on suspicion of criminal damage with intent to endanger life and endangering the safety of a vessel.[The Guardian · Al Jazeera]
Police stated the suspect was detained under provisions of the Aviation and Maritime Security Act 1990 and the Merchant Shipping Act 1995.[The Guardian]
Thomas told followers his action was meant to ensure the dinghy would not be taken back to France and reused.[BBC News]
Tommy Robinson alleged on social media that Thomas was arrested for attempting to stop an invasion of the country.[Al Jazeera]
Advocacy group Stand Up To Racism condemned the footage of Thomas slashing the boat as disgusting.[BBC News · The Guardian]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.