Rival protests on Plymouth Hoe ended in a tense face off this evening after the two opposing groups confronted each other without a police line between them.
Officers quickly intervened to restore order and prevent a further altercation. One man was arrested under dangerous dog legislation after a dog attacked officers and bit a protester. He remains in police custody.
Devon and Cornwall Police led the operation with mutual aid drafted in from South Wales Police, Dyfed Powys Police, Dorset Police and Avon and Somerset Police.
Specialist dog handlers were also deployed to deal with the incident involving the dog. The day began at around 12pm when the Plymouth anti-fascist group arrived on the Hoe.
Flag Force Plymouth gathered from about 1pm. Both groups chanted and displayed flags and placards as officers kept them separated and monitored the crowds.
The atmosphere intensified early in the evening when the groups drew closer and an altercation broke out. Police intervened and separated the opposing groups.
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The injured protester received medical treatment and officers are conducting an investigation into the incident involving the dog.
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