Security called
Suspect that security was requested by the crew in anticipation of a hostile reaction from the passengers. The passengers had already endured many delays and were likely getting a bit upset. The perception that the pilot was "forcibly" removed is likely the crew being escorted through the crowd so they could get to their hotel.
Journalistic spin to incite controversy prays on ignorance and prejudice. If the crew was concerned about fatigue due to a creeping delay, they took the responsible course of action. The passengers were suffering the consequences of inept management by the airline. The public is suffering the consequences of inept journalism.