France Imposes Sweeping Ban on British Far-Right Activists in Calais Region

French Authorities Act to Prevent Disorder

French authorities have enacted a sweeping ban on British far-right activists from congregating in the Calais region, specifically across the Nord and Pas-de-Calais prefectures. This decisive action aims to prevent public disorder stemming from planned anti-migrant activities along the Channel coast. The ban, which came into force on Friday evening, January 23, 2026, at 11 pm, is set to remain active until Monday morning, January 26, 2026, at 8 am.

Targeted Groups and Individuals

The prohibition targets British far-right groups, notably those associated with 'Raise the Colours' (RTC) and 'Operation Overlord'. An earlier statement from France's Interior Ministry on January 14, 2026, had already announced entry bans against ten British nationals linked to the 'Raise the Colours' movement. Key individuals identified as subject to these administrative entry prohibitions include 'Raise the Colours' militants Danny Tommo (also known as Daniel Thomas), Ryan Bridge, and Elliott Stanley. There were also unconfirmed reports that UKIP leader Nick Tenconi, who has been involved in organizing groups to harass migrants in the region, was included in the ban.

Rationale Behind the Ban

French officials have justified the ban as a preventative measure, citing serious risks to public order. The Interior Ministry stated that its services had been repeatedly alerted to the presence and activities of these activists. Their actions reportedly included:

• Harassment and intimidation of asylum seekers and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
• Verbal abuse.
• Vandalism of water containers and aid infrastructure.
• Deliberate puncturing of inflatable boats (dinghies) used by migrants.
• Conducting propaganda operations aimed at recruiting British citizens to 'end migration'.

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez was informed of these incidents in December 2025 and subsequently tasked relevant authorities with identifying the individuals and implementing preventive measures. The French government emphasized its commitment to preventing actions that could incite violence, hatred, or discrimination.

Ongoing Anti-Migrant Activity

The ban follows months of escalating activity by far-right activists along the northern coast of France. Groups like 'Raise the Colours' have engaged in 'raids on northern beaches' under the pretext of 'fighting mass immigration'. 'Operation Overlord', initially launched by 'Raise the Colours', is now reportedly being run by Daniel Thomas, who had called for a 'visible patriotic mobilisation' on French beaches. This ongoing pattern of anti-migrant campaigning and direct action has prompted the French authorities to take firm steps to maintain public safety and order in the region.