Homophobic Christian evangelical group ‘King’s Army’ marches through London’s Old Compton Street
A 'Christian evangelical group' calling itself the 'King’s Army' has marched through Old Compton Street - the historic heart of London’s LGBTQ+ community - chanting religious slogans and accusing the area of “immorality”.
Dressed in matching black tracksuits and moving in a military-style formation, the group blocked traffic and disrupted nightlife in Soho on Friday night, shouting “Jesus saves” repeatedly. The demonstration, promoted online by far-right group Turning Point UK, was described by many as a deliberate act of intimidation targeting LGBTQ+ spaces.
Local residents and business owners expressed deep concern over the march, which some likened to “blackshirt-style” tactics.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed they engaged with the crowd but reported no offences. However, critics argue that the group’s uniformed presence may breach UK laws designed to prevent fascist-style political demonstrations. The Public Order Act prohibits the wearing of uniforms that suggest affiliation with political organisations, unless under specific ceremonial exceptions.
Equality campaigners and LGBTQ+ advocates have condemned the protest as “homophobic intimidation”. Thomas Willet from Equality Amplified stated, “This isn’t activism; it’s a calculated attempt to threaten and erase queer visibility.”
The 'King’s Army', which emerged in mid-2024, describes itself as a “spiritual army” waging war against "sin and cultural decay".
