A total of 77 arrests were made during a Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) protest in central London, as demonstrators attempted to breach Public Order Act conditions and caused significant disruption. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrests included offenses such as breaching conditions, public order violations, and assaulting officers.
Protest Restrictions
Protesters were initially barred from gathering near a synagogue close to Portland Place due to concerns of disruption to the local community. Subsequent conditions required them to assemble in Russell Square and follow a pre-approved route to Whitehall. However, a last-minute agreement between the PSC and police restricted the demonstration to a static protest in Whitehall.
Coordinated Breach of Conditions
Despite the agreement, police reported a deliberate and coordinated attempt by protesters to breach the conditions by marching out of Whitehall toward the BBC at Portland Place.
Commander Adam Slonecki, who led the operation, said:
“This is the most significant escalation in criminality we’ve seen, with the highest number of arrests at a PSC protest. Protest organizers deliberately defied the agreed-upon conditions, inciting the crowd to breach police lines.”
The group, reportedly numbering over 1,000 people, attempted to push through police barriers at Trafalgar Square, where they were stopped by officers. Arrests were made as protesters continued to try alternative routes to reach their target.
Arrests and Offenses
Among the 77 arrests were charges for:
- 65 counts of breaching conditions
- 5 public order offenses
- 1 incitement of racial hatred
- 1 sexual assault
- 1 assault on an emergency worker
- 1 common assault
- 1 charge of supporting a proscribed organization
Protest Disruption and Investigations
The police reported three officers were spat on while handling incidents earlier in the day, though no serious injuries were sustained. Investigations are now underway, with authorities reviewing body-worn camera footage, CCTV, and social media posts to identify further suspects.
Commander Slonecki added:
“We are determined to hold those accountable who organized and encouraged these breaches. This level of criminality will not be tolerated, and prosecutions will follow.”
Impact on Londoners
The protest disrupted traffic and public transport in the Whitehall and Trafalgar Square areas. Police thanked the public for their patience during the operation and reassured Londoners of their commitment to maintaining order and safety.
