What we know after Tommy Robinson arrested in Canada

Tommy Robinson

Tommy Robinson has been taken into custody in Canada for allegedly breaking immigration laws following a public talk in Calgary.

Tommy Robinson - Figure 1
Photo Yahoo News UK

The conservative protester, whose actual name is Stephen Yaxley Lennon, seemed to chuckle in shock as police officers arrested him and led him to their vehicle.

In a video recorded by the news channel Rebel News on Monday, law enforcement officers informed the activist against Islam that he was being arrested due to a warrant that had not been resolved.

Critiquing Canada's leader, Robinson expressed his disdain for Justin Trudeau on camera while being placed in the rear of the vehicle.

In a different video recorded by Robinson secretly inside the police car, it looks like he is having a heated discussion with the two undercover officers who detained him, questioning the reasons for his arrest.

In this section of the blog, Yahoo News outlines the current information regarding Robinson's detention and the potential legal charges he may be up against.

Robinson, aged 41, was taken into custody right after delivering a speech at a gathering in Calgary on Monday. He was overheard muttering "completely crazy" as the police escorted him.

During Robinson's car ride, he asked for more details and was informed that his arrest had been authorized by the head of the Canada Border Services Agency.

Robinson said to the officers, "Isn't it crazy how harsh you are with immigration when it comes to the wrong people?"

"Wow, it's really crazy. It's like you guys are acting like total cowards by allowing anyone and everyone to come into your country without knowing anything about them - their criminal records, beliefs, or anything. And then you all show up in a big group to protest me giving a speech at a conference."

Tommy Robinson - Figure 2
Photo Yahoo News UK

Robinson criticized Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau while being put in the back of a car. (Source: @TRobinsonNewEra/Rebel News)

A police officer finds it amusing that Robinson is discussing his criminal record, hinting that he may have lied on his application to enter the country. However, Robinson refutes this claim and explains that his employer completed the application for him.

Robinson has been let go, but he must give up his passport and must remain in Canada. He posted a new message on X on Tuesday at 8.15am UK time, saying: "I'm released, but with restrictions."

I am confused by the current situation. I am currently stuck in Calgary and unable to leave the city. These circumstances are preventing me from carrying on with my Canada tour and meeting with guests for podcasts. I am not even able to go back home.

Robinson was scheduled to speak in three Canadian cities by Rebel News. The owner and co-founder, Ezra Levant, asked for support in funding Robinson's legal expenses while he waits for his hearing.

Levant later stated: "Rebel News has enlisted the top criminal lawyer in Calgary, Alain Hepner, and we are actively trying to get him released quickly. He is currently working on the situation."

Tommy Robinson was seen discreetly recording a discussion with police officers while sitting in the rear of a police vehicle. (Source: Tommy Robinson's official Twitter account/Rebel News)

The Unknown

It is unknown when Robinson will next appear in court or how long he could be prohibited from leaving Canada.

In an interview with Rebel News after being let go from jail, he mentioned that he is required to check in with the authorities every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. He also has to inform them of the hotel or address where he is staying.

Since he has not been proven guilty of any immigration violations, it remains uncertain if he will be removed from Canada, barred from re-entry, or subjected to other consequences.

Considering the terms of his release, it is probable that Robinson will not be able to make it to his two other planned appearances in Edmonton on Tuesday and Toronto on June 30th. However, this has not been officially confirmed yet.

Although the police seemed to suggest the nature of Robinson's immigration violation during their discussion in the vehicle, this has not been officially confirmed. The specific details of the charge have not been made public.

Officials have not made any statements regarding the video that was shared on social media as a hidden recording. It is uncertain if Robinson will be held accountable for recording the video.

Tommy Robinson taken into custody in Canada for suspected immigration violations (Evening Standard)

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