Six Arrested Over Plot to Lock Down London Stock Exchange
Detectives have swooped on a group planning to disrupt the London Stock Exchange, arresting six suspects in a pre-dawn crackdown. The plot was uncovered thanks to a tip-off from the Daily Express to the Met Police on Friday, 12 January.
Palestine Action Activists Targeted
The alleged scheme, masterminded by activists linked to Palestine Action, aimed to damage the Stock Exchange and ‘lock on’ to prevent it from opening for trading on Monday morning, 15 January.
Coordinated Raids Across the UK
- Early Sunday, a 31-year-old man was nabbed in Liverpool for conspiracy to cause criminal damage.
- Five others followed later that day: a 29-year-old woman in Brent’s Albert Road, a 23-year-old man in Tower Hamlets, two women aged 28 and 26 in Liverpool, and a 27-year-old man in Brighton.
All six remain in custody as investigations continue.
Police Praise Media Tip-Off for Foiling Plot
“These are significant arrests. We believe this group was ready to carry out a disruptive and damaging stunt which could have had serious implications,” said Detective Superintendent Sian Thomas.
“I’m grateful to the Express for their willingness to provide the information gleaned from their own investigation. It was instrumental in helping us intervene successfully.”
Thomas added the police had limited time after receiving the intelligence on Friday afternoon but, thanks to a determined Public Order Crime team and Merseyside colleagues, they quickly located and arrested the suspects.
Police are working with the City of London and other UK forces to prepare for any further actions during what is believed to be a planned week of protests.
