Kent Police have triggered sweeping new emergency powers in Dover today, slapping a 24-hour ban on face coverings across the town to thwart potential violence during planned demonstrations.
Under Section 157 of the newly enacted Crime and Policing Act 2026, the temporary order came into force at 9:00am on Saturday 25 July. The measures grant officers heightened authority to target anyone attempting to conceal their identity—or helping others to hide theirs—within a sprawling designated zone covering ten Dover wards.
The targeted area stretches across Buckland, Tower Hamlets Town and Castle, Maxton and Elmsvale, St Radigunds, Tower Hamlets, Whitfield, Guston and St Margarets-At-Cliffe, Alkham and Capel-Le-Ferne, alongside Dover Downs and River.
Police commanders moved swiftly to enact the crack-down in response to intelligence surrounding rival protest groups gathering in the coastal town throughout the day. Under the terms of the order, anyone wearing face coverings without a legitimate reason—such as medical or religious grounds—will be ordered by officers to remove them immediately. Those who refuse to comply face swift arrest and potential criminal charges.
A heavy, highly visible police presence has descended on the port town to maintain order, with senior officers actively liaising with event organisers to head off potential flashpoints before trouble flares. Authorities insist the drastic temporary measures are essential to guarantee public safety, deter agitators from hiding behind anonymity, and ensure the local community remains protected throughout the weekend.