Twenty Fined £10,000 for London Protests Breaking COVID Rules
Twenty people face eye-watering £10,000 fines after flouting coronavirus restrictions at London demonstrations. The hefty Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) were issued for organising or joining gatherings of more than 30 in public — a direct breach of Health Protection (Coronavirus) Regulations.
Crackdown on Multiple Demonstrations Across the Capital
The fines come following protests including “Resist the Government”, “Move One Million”, “The Ivory Coast Protest”, “Citizens’ Assembly Extinction Rebellion”, and “The Lightship Greta procession”. One report also dates back to a Sunday, 30 August, anti-Government demonstration in Trafalgar Square.
Met Police Warn Public: Covid Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility
Commander Kyle Gordon, overseeing weekend policing, slammed organisers for risking public health:
“Throughout this period we have become increasingly concerned the organisers of these events have not always taken all reasonable measures to limit the risk of transmission of Coronavirus, thereby posing a risk, not only to those involved but the wider public and communities of London.”
He stressed the Met’s balanced approach of “engage, explain, encourage and only as a last resort enforce.” Officers have been actively warning demonstrators and organisers about the serious public health risks.
Gordon added:
“I would urge anyone considering gathering in groups of more than 30 to consider the risk to themselves and others. I would appeal to anyone planning on organising a gathering to consider your responsibilities under the regulations, and to do all you can to help keep our communities safe.”
Londoners Told: Don’t Risk £10,000 Fine Over Illegal Protests
With the pandemic still raging, the Met is ready to hit offenders with stinging fines. The message is clear — follow the rules or face the consequences.
