In a significant show of force, the Metropolitan Police have taken a firm stance in response to the clashes that erupted in central London today, during the pro-Palestinian march on Remembrance Day. The police surrounded a large number of counter-protesters, including supporters of far-right figure Tommy Robinson, and made several arrests following confrontations and missile-throwing incidents.
Key Developments:
- Police Action: Met Police arrested individuals carrying knives and batons amidst the chaos. They have pledged to ‘respond robustly to unacceptable aggression and disorder’.
- Counter-Protest Clashes: Clashes broke out as Tommy Robinson and his supporters arrived in Whitehall. Chants of ‘England till I die’ and ‘Let us through’ were heard as police struggled to contain the situation near the Cenotaph.
- Missiles Thrown at Officers: The police faced aggression from counter-protesters who threw missiles and bottles. Riot police were deployed in Chinatown after confrontations intensified.
Security Operation:
- This incident occurs amidst the biggest ever Remembrance security operation by the Met Police.
- Nearly 2,000 officers were deployed in anticipation of potential confrontations between pro-Palestinian demonstrators and counter-protesters.
Details of the Incident:
- The police detained a group of protesters in Westminster believed to be involved in earlier disorder.
- Two men were arrested for carrying a knife and a baton, respectively.
Robinson’s Involvement:
- Tommy Robinson, real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, led the counter-protesters, who overwhelmed police outside the Met’s HQ before moving onto Whitehall.
- As the two-minute silence for Armistice Day approached, tensions escalated near the Cenotaph, with police forming barriers to prevent clashes.
Public Safety and Transport Disruptions:
- The Met Police’s primary focus is ensuring public safety amidst these protests.
- London’s transport system, particularly in central areas, has experienced significant disruptions due to the protests.
Official Statements and Warnings:
- The Met Police have stated their commitment to maintaining order and ensuring the safety
