The Metropolitan Police are seeking the public’s help in identifying individuals involved in a pro-Palestinian convoy that caused significant disruption and danger on major London roads, including the A13 and the Limehouse Link Tunnel, on Saturday night.
Incident Details: The incident occurred around 10.15pm when the police were alerted to a convoy of cars displaying Palestinian flags, heading into central London from a car park in Hancock Road, Tower Hamlets. The convoy, comprising 80 vehicles, was intercepted by roads policing units, public order teams, and a police helicopter in South Kensington’s Exhibition Road.
Police Response and Actions: A dispersal order was enacted, and all vehicles were issued notices under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act, ordering them to disperse and cease their participation in the convoy. Non-compliance risked seizure of the vehicles. One vehicle was seized, and 18 drivers were issued fixed penalty notices for various road traffic offences. Additionally, nine vehicles were served with prohibition notices due to being unfit for use.
Investigation and Dangerous Behaviour: Subsequent investigations revealed that the convoy had dangerously stopped twice on major roads, causing disruption and risking safety. The group also had plans to proceed to the Israeli Embassy off Kensington High Street, which prompted the police’s decisive intervention.
Public Appeal for Information: Officers have examined social media and other footage to identify those believed to be involved in offences as part of the convoy. Images of these individuals are being released to the public.
T/Commander Karen Findlay, who led the policing operation, stated, “Our enquiries have not only revealed the extent of their dangerous antics on major roads, they’ve also established the group had plans to move on from Exhibition Road to the Israeli Embassy off Kensington High Street.
She also emphasized the importance of public assistance in similar cases, asking anyone who can help identify those in the shared images to call 101 with the reference 4237915/23 and provide the unique number in the bottom corner of the images.
Previous Incidents and Community Impact: The convoy’s behaviour is particularly concerning given previous instances where similar car processions passed through Jewish communities, causing fear and intimidation. The Metropolitan Police’s swift action aimed to prevent a repeat of such situations.
Anonymous Reporting: Information can also be provided anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
