Fifteen activists from the group Take Back Power have been arrested in a major police swoop that stopped a planned mass shoplifting spree targeting high street supermarkets.
Activists Nabbed During Secret Training Session
The group, infamous for their December chaos at the Ritz and even the Crown Jewels, were caught plotting to steal bulk goods and redistribute them. On Thursday evening (March 5), members met at Westminster’s Quaker Meeting House for a so-called “nonviolent direct action training.” But the Met’s Public Order Crime Team crashed the party and made 15 arrests.
Police Crack Down on Mass Theft Conspiracy
Officers charged the suspects with conspiracy to commit theft. One was quickly bailed, while 14 remain in police custody across london/" title="London" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="8185">London as the probe continues.
Top Cop Sends Tough Message to Activists
“There is a clear difference between lawful protest and criminal acts,” warned Deputy Assistant Commissioner James Harman.
“This evening’s operation tackled a group planning to steal from shops in a large, targeted and organised way. Theft is a crime and the public expect the police to deal with it – which is exactly what we have done today.”
