Counter-terror Police Investigating Far-Right Group Over Sadiq Khan Deepfake

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan speaking to media during a visit to Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP), a Palestinian aid charity in London. Picture date: Friday October 13, 2023. (Press Association via AP Images)

Counter-terrorism police are investigating a fake video shared by a far right affiliated TikTok account that falsely depicts London Mayor Sadiq Khan saying that Remembrance Sunday events must be postponed to prioritise a pro-Palestinian march.

https://www.tiktok.com/@e.d.l.worcester/video/7299709750789311776

The video was shared by an account that claims to be affiliated with English Defence League Worcester but has the TikTok user stamp of previous accounts that had posted it, suggesting it had been downloaded and shared several times. The previous usernames cannot be clearly read.

A TikTok account affiliated with EDL Worcester shared the video. (Screengrab/TikTok)

The clip, clearly manipulated with AI technology to mimic Khan’s voice, has garnered over 100,000 views on social media platforms. It portrays Khan downplaying the significance of Armistice Day in favour of showing support for the Palestinian cause.

This incident coincides with intense debate surrounding the timing of the march. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Home Secretary Suella Braverman have urged postponing the event due to its overlap with Remembrance Day. Braverman, who previously labelled the marches as “hate marches,” faces scrutiny over her strong stance against the Metropolitan Police, accusing them of bias in favour of the march.

The Metropolitan Police’s counter-terror unit is investigating the matter, acknowledging the growing concerns around deepfake technology’s impact on public discourse and democracy. This follows a similar incident where Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer was targeted with a fake video.

Amidst these developments, the pro-Palestine march organisers emphasise their respect for Remembrance Day, ensuring no disruption to the 11am silence and avoiding the Cenotaph. The rally is part of a series of protests following Israel’s response to Hamas’s October 7 attacks. Despite calls for cancellation, supporters defend the right to peaceful protest.