Investigation Dropped Over Alleged Attack on Veteran Poppy Seller at Edinburgh Rally
The British Transport Police (BTP) have called time on their probe into the claimed assault of 78-year-old army vet and poppy seller Jim Henderson during a pro-Palestinian rally at Edinburgh’s Waverley Station. After carefully reviewing CCTV footage and witness accounts, officers said there was “insufficient evidence” to proceed.
No Targeting of Poppy Sellers Found
Assistant Chief Constable Sean O’Callaghan stressed the investigation uncovered no proof that poppy sellers were deliberately targeted or at risk during the protest. The incident happened amidst a large demonstration against the Israel-Gaza conflict, where hundreds packed the station concourse.
Veteran Jim Henderson Claims He Was Attacked
Jim Henderson, who served with the Royal Corps of Signals in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, said he was punched and kicked while trying to pack up his stall. The alleged attack reportedly happened as he gathered his belongings inside Waverley Station.
Separate Racial Offence Incident Leads to Arrest
On the same day, BTP also investigated a racially aggravated public order offence at Edinburgh Waverley. A 41-year-old man from North Lanarkshire was arrested, but police made clear this was unrelated to the Israel-Gaza protests or the alleged assault on Henderson.
