September, Thursday 19, 2024

London Protests: Police Investigate 145 Arrests and Charge Seven Individuals, Seeking Further Information


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A total of seven men have been charged for their involvement in disorder on Armistice Day. The Metropolitan Police reported that out of the 145 people arrested on Saturday, the majority were counter-protesters. Nine police officers were injured during the clashes. The police have condemned the violence carried out by right-wing counter-protesters who intentionally confronted the pro-Palestinian march. Investigations are ongoing for other offences, including antisemitic hate crimes. The pro-Palestinian demonstration, which coincided with Armistice Day, saw around 300,000 people taking part in a peaceful march through central London, demanding a ceasefire in Gaza. It was the largest rally in the UK since the Israel-Hamas conflict began in October. Although the march itself did not involve physical violence, authorities are investigating serious offences committed during the event. The charges against the seven men range from possession of weapons and drugs to public order offences and assault on an emergency worker. Among those charged, two live in London while the others come from various locations across the UK. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated that those involved in criminal activities must face the consequences, as their actions undermine the peaceful expression of views by others. He also condemned the disrespect shown towards the UK's armed forces by individuals associated with the English Defence League (EDL) who attacked police and trespassed on the Cenotaph war memorial. Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist of the Metropolitan Police expressed his concern over the violence directed towards police officers, describing it as extraordinary. Home Secretary Suella Braverman denounced the injuries inflicted on officers and thanked them for their professionalism while facing aggression from protesters and counter-protesters. Braverman has faced criticism for accusing the police of bias prior to the march, leading to calls for her dismissal. Although acts of physical violence were not observed during the pro-Palestinian march, the police have identified a number of serious offences related to hate crimes and potential support for proscribed organizations during the event. The police have released images of six individuals suspected of being involved in hate crimes and urged the public to provide any information or footage related to the offences. Videos filmed at Waterloo and Victoria stations showing abusive and antisemitic language have also prompted an appeal for information from the public. A video circulating on social media shows Michael Gove being escorted through Victoria Station by police officers while pro-Palestinian protesters shout insults. The Levelling Up Secretary, Gove, expressed gratitude to the police for safely escorting him home. During the pro-Palestinian march, protesters chanted slogans like "free Palestine" and "ceasefire now" as they marched from Hyde Park to the US Embassy in Nine Elms, covering a distance of around 2.5 miles. The Remembrance Sunday service at the Cenotaph, led by the King, proceeded without any incident.