Met Police Ready to Tackle Just Stop Oil Christmas Chaos
Commander Karen Findlay of Met Operations has issued a stark warning to eco-protesters set to ramp up disruption in London this Christmas season.
More Mayhem Expected on London Streets
Just Stop Oil has already wreaked havoc on London’s roads and the M25. Now, the group plans more protests from November 28 to December 14 – right in the heart of the holiday rush.
Findlay said: “We are fully prepared with an experienced team and tough policing measures ready to respond fast and effectively. We have specialist officers trained to tackle complex lock-on devices often used by protesters.”
Police Caught Between Protest and Public
The Met tries to work with organisers for safe protests. But Just Stop Oil refuses to share plans or protest locations in advance, forcing police to deploy extra officers across the capital.
“These officers could otherwise focus on serious crimes like knife crime or burglaries,” Findlay explained. Since October 1, nearly 12,000 officer shifts have been needed just for Just Stop Oil patrols.
Public Anger Mounts as Disruption Takes Toll
“I understand the public’s frustration. These few protesters disrupt lives and businesses, blocking people heading to doctors, hospital appointments, work or collecting their children,” said Findlay.
She urged Just Stop Oil to engage with police to minimise disruption and reassured Londoners:
“The Met is large and resilient. Despite demands, we will keep communities safe and deal firmly with activists crossing the line into crime. We will remove and arrest protesters swiftly and restore normality promptly. Please don’t take matters into your own hands.”
Arrests Mount as Met Cracks Down
During October and November, the Met arrested 755 Just Stop Oil activists, charging 182 so far. The force is working closely with prosecutors to bring disruptors to justice and keep London moving.
