A protest in Camberwell, South London, took a violent turn this afternoon, resulting in the arrest of eight individuals on a range of charges. The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) reported that the arrests were made for offences such as violent disorder, criminal damage, possession of an offensive weapon, and assault on an emergency worker.
During the protests, which unfolded on Camberwell Road near The Lighthouse Theatre, four police officers sustained injuries. One of the injured officers was subsequently transported to the hospital for treatment but has since been discharged.
The protests, which involved approximately 50 demonstrators outside a private venue, were captured in numerous videos and photos shared on social media platforms. In these images, some protestors can be seen engaging in violent acts, including striking riot vans with sticks and other objects.
As the situation escalated, officers from the Southwark Police | Central South BCU intervened to disperse the crowd and maintain order. A Section 35 dispersal order was imposed in the area, granting officers the authority to disperse any gathering they believed could result in anti-social behaviour.
In response to these developments, the Southwark Police | Central South BCU posted on social media: “We are aware of footage being shared online. This will be investigated, alongside other evidence, to identify anyone else who may have committed criminal offences.”
Furthermore, the MPS clarified that officers were working with a group of individuals who had organized an event at a private venue on Camberwell Road. The arrests made were of individuals who were part of a larger group of demonstrators gathered outside the venue.
