The Metropolitan Police have reported a total of 17 arrests during a pro-Palestinian protest in London, held on Saturday. Authorities are now seeking public assistance to identify individuals involved in potential further offences after incidents emerged on social media.
A number of further potential offences have come to light on social media and we’re now appealing for the public’s help to identify the people involved,” a police spokesperson stated.
In an earlier incident, two individuals were arrested on suspicion of assaulting emergency workers after they attempted to breach a police cordon intended to keep protesters within the designated route.
One unusual arrest occurred in Whitehall, where officers spotted a man wearing what appeared to be a parachute. He was subsequently arrested on suspicion of wearing or displaying an article indicating support for a proscribed organisation.
The number of arrests increased as the day progressed. The final tally included:
- 3 arrests for assaulting an emergency worker
- 1 arrest for supporting a proscribed organisation
- 3 arrests for assault
- 7 arrests for public order offences (including 3 which were racially aggravated)
- 1 arrest for breach of Public Order Act conditions
- 2 additional arrests for unspecified offences
Despite these incidents, authorities reported that the majority of the protest proceeded without major disruptions. The police successfully prevented groups from breaking away from the main body of demonstrators by maintaining a cordon.
The Palestine Solidarity Campaign, known for organising events in support of Palestinian rights, has not yet commented on the arrests or the police’s appeal for information.
As investigations continue, the Metropolitan Police are encouraging anyone with information about potential offences that occurred during the protest to come forward.
