Chaos and Arrests Rock London’s Boat Race and Protests
It was a hectic weekend in London as police swooped on troublemakers at the iconic Oxford v Cambridge Boat Race in west London, several football matches, and clashing demonstrations in central London. The Palestinian Solidarity Campaign (PSC) held a march, countered by a pro-Israel rally, both turning tense and leading to multiple arrests.
Boat Race Disruption Plans Foiled
Police revealed they were tipped off about protesters plotting to disrupt the annual men’s and women’s Boat Race. Squad swooped, arresting four suspects and deploying dispersal orders to keep the race smooth and uninterrupted for fans watching worldwide.
Protests in Central London Spill Over
At the heart of the city, officers arrested several individuals on charges ranging from hate crimes to public order offences and terrorism-related acts. The PSC march and counter-protest saw arrests under various Public Order Acts and the Terrorism Act 2000.
- Two arrested for possessing lock-on equipment near the Boat Race under the Public Order Act 2023.
- Two men glued themselves to Chiswick Bridge, also arrested under the Public Order Act 2023.
- A man at the PSC march was detained for inviting support for a banned organisation under the Terrorism Act 2000.
- Two arrests at the PSC march for causing harassment, alarm, and distress.
- One arrested for a racially aggravated public order offence at the PSC march.
Police Praise and Future Crackdowns
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine, overseeing Easter weekend policing, said: “London has been extremely busy, but officers worked tirelessly to keep major events safe and maintain order across the capital.”
“I have been clear this weekend: we won’t tolerate anyone intent on criminality or disorder. We have made arrests for various offences with more expected as investigations continue.”
He added swift police action was key to ensuring the Boat Race went ahead without a hitch and thanked officers from the Met and other forces for their hard work keeping London safe over Easter.
