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Far-right activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has told a London court that he refused to hand over his mobile phone PIN to police because it contained “journalistic material.” The 42-year-old appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, charged under the Terrorism Act following an incident at the Channel Tunnel entrance near Folkestone in July 2024.
Robinson was detained under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act — legislation that gives officers sweeping powers to stop, question, and detain individuals at UK ports and borders to determine possible involvement in terrorism. Anyone detained under these powers is legally required to provide passwords or PINs to their electronic devices. Failure to comply can result in up to three months’ imprisonment or a £2,500 fine.
Robinson, who pleaded not guilty, was stopped while driving a silver Bentley Bentayga, which he claimed he was delivering on behalf of a friend to Benidorm, Spain. Police officers on duty described the vehicle as “unusual” and expressed suspicion over Robinson’s account, noting he appeared nervous and avoided eye contact.
PC Mitchell Thorogood, a counter-terrorism officer with Kent Police, testified that Robinson was stopped at the Channel Tunnel’s UK entrance on 28 July 2024. He said Robinson began filming officers during the encounter and refused to unlock his phone, stating it contained sensitive “journalist material.”
PS Farmer, the supervising officer at the scene, told the court that Robinson’s explanation for the trip — transporting a friend’s “extremely high-value” vehicle — raised further doubts. Officers subsequently detained him under counter-terrorism powers and seized the phone.
During proceedings, the court heard that Robinson told officers his phone contained information about “vulnerable girls.” Prosecutor Jo Morris said that the process for protecting journalistic sources had been clearly explained to him, but he still declined to comply.
Officers also discovered a bag inside the Bentley containing £13,370 in cash and €1,910 (approximately £1,660).
Before the hearing, Robinson addressed his supporters on X (formerly Twitter), claiming the case was an act of “state persecution.” He also alleged that Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of the platform, had agreed to cover his legal expenses — though Musk has not publicly confirmed this.
In court, Robinson appeared in a navy waistcoat and tie and was formally referred to by his legal name, Mr Lennon. His barrister, Alisdair Williamson KC, argued that the stop may have been “discriminatory” and politically motivated.
District Judge Sam Goozee ordered that Robinson’s home address not be published due to “credible threats” against his life. Williamson added that his client would not take the stand in his defence.
The courtroom was filled with more than 30 of Robinson’s supporters, many of whom had queued since early morning to attend the hearing. One was seen wearing a red “Make England Great Again” baseball cap.
Robinson’s two-day trial continues, with a verdict expected later this week.
