By Dayo Ade Olusola, M10News General News, Politics & Lifestyle Corresponden
LONDON — British far-right activist Tommy Robinson has been found not guilty of a terrorism-related offence after refusing to hand over his mobile phone password during a police stop at the Channel Tunnel in 2024
Robinson, 42, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was stopped by officers in Folkestone while driving a silver Bentley Bentayga containing thousands of pounds in cash.
He was on his way to Benidorm, Spain, when counter-terrorism police detained him under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act, a law granting broad powers to question individuals passing through UK ports.
Officers said they became suspicious after noticing the former English Defence League leader’s “vague replies” and “lack of eye contact.”
Robinson reportedly told police the device contained sensitive journalistic material, including information on “vulnerable girls.”
He refused to unlock his iPhone, replying, “Not a chance, bruv,” when asked for his PIN.
Under Schedule 7 powers, failure to provide access to digital devices can be treated as a criminal offence, but individuals must be questioned only to determine potential links to terrorism.
Police Suspicion and Border Search
The trial at Westminster Magistrates’ Court last month heard that Robinson’s behaviour made officers “concerned,” leading them to detain him for questioning.
He was carrying £13,000 in cash and €1,900, and the Bentley he drove was not registered in his name.
Prosecutors argued that his refusal to cooperate amounted to non-compliance with counter-terrorism laws.
However, the defence maintained that Robinson had been unfairly targeted due to his political activism and prior media controversies.
His legal team claimed the stop was not based on any legitimate security threat but rather on his identity and beliefs.
Robinson later posted on X (formerly Twitter) that billionaire Elon Musk had “picked up the legal bill” for what he described as “absolute state persecution.”
Court Ruling and Reaction
Delivering the verdict, the presiding judge said the police’s main reason for stopping Robinson appeared to be “what you stood for and your political beliefs.” Sky News report
He ruled that the stop may have been influenced by a “protected characteristic,” meaning the action was discriminatory in nature.
The judge added: “I cannot convict you,” prompting cheers from supporters in the public gallery.
The court accepted that Robinson had legitimate grounds to claim his phone contained journalistic materials, even though he is a controversial figure with a history of legal disputes.
Robinson has long identified himself as an independent journalist and campaigner, often reporting on cases involving grooming gangs and extremist networks.
His supporters argue he is being targeted by authorities for his political speech, while critics accuse him of spreading hate and division.
Broader Context
The case reignites debate over the use of counter-terrorism powers at UK ports and airports, which civil liberties groups say can be misused against activists and journalists.
Under Schedule 7, individuals can be detained for up to six hours and are required by law to answer police questions, even if not under arrest.
Human rights advocates have repeatedly called for reforms to the legislation, warning that it risks infringing on freedom of expression and privacy rights.
The Home Office has defended the powers as a necessary tool to “protect national security,” though critics say the rules must be applied proportionately.
Robinson, who has previously served prison sentences for contempt of court and other offences, told reporters outside court that the verdict represented “a victory for free speech.”
He said: “They tried to silence me, but the judge saw through it. I was targeted for who I am, not for any crime.”
Robinson left court flanked by supporters, many waving flags and chanting his name, as police maintained a visible security presence outside the building.
Editing by M10News Crime Desk | Contact: crime@m10news.com
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