Police have arrested 15 activists from the group Take Back Power to foil a mass shoplifting plot targeting high street supermarkets.
Activists Caught Red-Handed at Training Session
The group, notorious for December’s stunts involving damage at the Ritz and the Crown Jewels, had been plotting to steal goods in bulk and redistribute them. On Thursday evening (March 5), members gathered at Westminster’s Quaker Meeting House for so-called ‘nonviolent direct action training’ – but were swiftly interrupted by the Met’s Public Order Crime Team.
Police Shut Down Criminal Plot
The officers arrested 15 people on suspicion of conspiracy to commit theft. One suspect was bailed, while 14 remain in custody at London police stations as investigations continue.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Issues Stern Warning
“There is a clear difference between lawful protest and criminal acts,” said 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.
“We considered past concerns from a similar operation last year but we had no choice but to act. We won’t let groups plan crimes simply by booking venues.”
The Met has vowed to continue the criminal investigation into the activists’ illicit schemes.
