Today, central London witnessed a flurry of events, including a significant march organized by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC), counter-protests, demonstrations at the Eritrean Embassy, and various football-related activities.
A robust police presence was deployed to engage with protestors and uphold safety measures, particularly focusing on maintaining separation between groups with opposing views and safeguarding the public. Instances of offences, including offensive placards, chants, violence, and sexual assault, were swiftly addressed by the Police.
Notable incidents during the day included:
- Arrest of Offensive Chant Leader: A man leading an offensive chant of “Intifada Revolution” and causing damage to a traffic light on Regent Street was promptly arrested by officers.
- Offensive Coffin Display: Another arrest was made when a man was observed carrying a coffin bearing offensive language during the march.
- Assault on Officer: An officer was assaulted during the search of a man who attempted to evade police custody, resulting in his arrest.
- Intervention in Counter Protest: A man holding an offensive placard amidst the counter-protest in Piccadilly Circus was identified, intervened, and arrested by Police.
- De-escalation and Arrest: In a separate incident, an altercation between a man and a protestor was de-escalated by officers. Despite warnings, the man persisted, leading to his arrest.
- Swift Response to Sexual Assault: Following a report of sexual assault near Piccadilly Circus tube station, swift action by officers led to the arrest of the suspect and support for the victim.
In total, seven arrests were made during the PSC event, including offences related to racially aggravated public order, criminal damage, and sexual assault. Additionally, a 74-year-old man was arrested for provocation of violence during the counter-protest in Piccadilly Circus.
Furthermore, ten individuals were arrested in connection with the football league play-off final policing operation, involving offences such as violent disorder, assault, drug possession, fraud, and racially aggravated public order offences.
Chief Superintendent Colin Wingrove, overseeing the policing operation, emphasized the collaboration with event organizers to facilitate safe protests while minimizing disruptions to the community. He commended officers for swift interventions in suspected criminal activities throughout the day.
The policing operation underscores the commitment to ensuring public safety and maintaining order during diverse events in central London.
