Cyprus police announced on Wednesday that they are prepared to support their British counterparts in taking action against far-right figure Tommy Robinson, who is accused of inciting anti-migrant violence while vacationing on the island. "We are in communication with the British police, and if they require our assistance, we are prepared to provide it," stated a spokesperson for the Cyprus police as thousands of UK riot police were on standby to handle potential further outbreaks of violence.
According to British media reports, the ex-leader of the English Defence League seems to be avoiding a court appearance in the UK while on holiday in Cyprus. He was recently captured on video by AFPTV lounging by a pool at a five-star hotel in Ayia Napa. Robinson, whose actual name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is believed to have instigated attacks on migrants in Britain via social media. Cyprus police confirmed to AFP that they believe Robinson remains on the island and have notified British authorities that they are monitoring him. "He is still in Cyprus as far as we know," the spokesperson added. Robinson denied being on the island in a post on X, stating, "Lucky I'm not in Cyprus then ain't it."
Britain's director of public prosecutions cautioned on Wednesday that social media influencers allegedly promoting violent disorder would face extradition, although Robinson's name was not specifically mentioned. Stephen Parkinson of the BBC emphasized that offenders "must understand that they are not beyond reach and there is no place to hide." He further stated, "We would certainly consider extradition if we are convinced that a crime has been committed." British interior minister Yvette Cooper asserted that there would be consequences for those responsible, noting that social media exacerbated the violence that erupted over a week ago following the murder of three children. The government has mobilized 6,000 specialist police to address England's most severe disorder in over a decade, resulting in hundreds of arrests and over 100 charges. The violence was triggered by the fatal stabbing of three girls, aged nine, seven, and six, and the critical injury of five other children during a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, northwest England.
