A man in his 70s was arrested for assault at last weekend’s march through Crowborough.
Police have confirmed the arrest of the 71-year-old and added that using new powers, they also spoke with three people about removing face coverings.
Reports suggest there were around 100 people who took part in Sunday’s march which reversed the usual route. It began at Chapel Green and the protesters marched to the army training camp which houses male migrants while their asylum applications are processed.
Ahead of the march Sussex Police warned they would be enforcing the face covering ban – made possible by the Crime and Police Act – following previous incidents involving masked protesters in other parts of the country.
Superintendent Rachel Glenton said: “We can confirm that one man aged 71 was arrested on suspicion of common assault. Officers spoke with three individuals about face coverings, one of whom was exempt for medical reasons, while the other two agreed to remove face coverings when requested.
“We will continue to have an increased police presence in Crowborough and the surrounding area to provide a clear point of contact for the public for engagement and reassurance.”