Several officers in the U.K. assaulted during anti-immigration protest

LONDON (CBS, KYMA) - Metropolitan Police said several of its officers were assaulted after protesters attempted to "access sterile areas, breach police cordons or get to opposing groups" during the "Unite the Kingdom" rally in central London Saturday.

The BBC reported that more than 100,000 people joined the anti-immigration rally, which was organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson. It was also estimated that a nearby anti-racism counterprotest drew an additional 5,000 people to the area.

Metropolitan Police said that around 1,000 officers were "responsible for ensuring that the two demonstrations in central London take place safely."

Footage released by the police force shows officers facing off against Unite the Kingdom protesters on Saturday.

"Officers were attacked with projectiles and have had to use force to avoid their cordon being breached," police said.