Tommy Robinson was stopped by police at the Channel Tunnel border while driving a luxury Bentley SUV with thousands of pounds in cash. The 42-year-old, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, refused to provide the PIN for his iPhone when officers demanded access under terrorism legislation.
Westminster Magistrates' Court heard on Monday that Robinson was travelling to the Spanish resort of Benidorm when he was stopped at Folkestone on July 28 last year. He denies failing to comply with counter-terrorism powers during the incident.
Border stop details
Police became suspicious of Robinson's behaviour after he drove alone into the inspection area at the Channel Tunnel. Officers described his "vague replies" and noted he made no eye contact with them during questioning.
Robinson was recognised by police and led to an interview room where his phone was seized. During this process, he attempted to film himself claiming he had been arrested before officers told him to "relax".
When asked to provide his phone's PIN, Robinson replied: "Not a chance bruv… you look like c*** so you ain't having it." He told officers: "It's my work, I'm a journalist," adding that the phone contained information about "vulnerable girls".
Legal powers and evidence
The court heard Robinson was carrying more than £13,000 in cash plus 1,900 euros when stopped. He had arrived to buy tickets on the day rather than booking in advance, which police described as "unusual".
Police were acting under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act, which allows officers to stop anyone at UK ports "to determine whether they may be involved or concerned in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism". Under this legislation, detained individuals must provide passwords for electronic devices or face criminal charges.
Robinson's defence barrister Alisdair Williamson KC suggested the stop may have been "discriminatory" against his political beliefs. Questioning whether terrorists would use high-visibility vehicles, Williamson noted that Bentley prices start at £170,000.
Trial continues
Before the hearing, the former English Defence League leader claimed in a video on X that billionaire Elon Musk had "picked up the legal bill" for what he called "this absolute state persecution". Robinson, who was described as one of the "best known features of modern life", reportedly travels to Benidorm frequently.
If found guilty, Robinson faces up to three months in jail and a £2,500 fine. The trial continues with Robinson denying the charge.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
