Met Braces for Troublemaker Protests in London
The Met, alongside British Transport Police and City of London Police, has been gearing up to police upcoming demonstrations across the capital. Their goals: keep Londoners safe, cut down disruption, tackle crime, and react fast to any flashpoints.
Mixed Cooperation from Protest Groups
Some protest groups have worked with the Met’s planning teams to ensure peaceful events. Others, like Million Mask March and Just Stop Oil, have ignored talks. This means the police have to stay flexible and ready to handle trouble on the fly.
Commander Jon Savell Speaks Out
“The Met has a long history of handling spontaneous protests in London. Our teams are experienced and ready to respond quickly to any public order incidents.
“We fully support peaceful protest and try to work with organisers to keep events safe. But unlike other groups, Million Mask March and Just Stop Oil refuse to engage with us beforehand, making it harder to minimise disruption. Some protesters cross the line into criminality, and we won’t tolerate anti-social behaviour, disorder or damage.”
“Since 2 October, we’ve arrested 677 Just Stop Oil protesters, charging 111 so far. Nearly all have faced court.
“Policing these protests has cost 9,438 officer shifts—officers who’d otherwise tackle knife crime, safeguarding, and burglaries. Still, the Met remains strong and ready to handle core policing duties.
“We must balance the rights of protesters with those of local communities and businesses wanting to operate without major disruption.
“When activists cause disruption, our officers aim to arrive on scene fast. I urge the public to trust the police and not take matters into their own hands.
“We’re determined to bring to justice anyone causing serious disruption or property damage in London. That’s what the public expects, and we’ll work closely with the CPS and courts to make it happen.”
