Nation on edge as Duke of Edinburgh laid to rest amid tight security
The Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral takes place on Saturday in Windsor, but London’s Metropolitan Police aren’t taking any chances. A high-profile security operation has been running all week around Westminster and Buckingham Palace, designed to keep the capital safe and stamp out any hint of trouble. This heavy policing will continue through the day of the funeral.
Protests planned amidst royal mourners
Saturday afternoon is set to see a protest in central London. While demonstrations are allowed under current Covid-19 rules, organisers must prove they’ve put strict safety measures in place to minimise the risk of spreading the virus.
Top cop issues warning to protestors
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jane Connors, head of the operation, said:
“Last Friday we were all deeply saddened to learn of the passing of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.
“Saturday will be a solemn day for the nation as his funeral takes place. We will maintain a bespoke policing plan around Buckingham Palace and central London to keep the public safe and disrupt any criminality.
“We are deploying officers ahead of the planned demonstration. But I must stress, we remain in a public health crisis. Large gatherings risk spreading Covid-19.
“We’ve reached out to organisers to explain the rules they must follow to stay lawful and safe. It is their responsibility to comply. Should they fail, officers may have no choice but to disperse crowds to protect public health. We hope it won’t come to that.”
Covid warning amid easing restrictions
Connors added: “Though restrictions have eased, the situation can change fast—as seen across Europe and here at home. We are still fighting a global pandemic and everyone must do their bit to stop the virus spreading.”
London stays on alert as the nation mourns, balancing respect and safety in these uncertain times.
