Met update on ‘unacceptable’ scenes of disorder in Whitehall
The Met have now confirmed the tally of arrests following the Whitehall disorders last night reached 111 – with offences ranging from knife and drug possession to violent disorder and assault.
They have also issued a statement condemning the actions of protestors who massed in Westminster in the aftermath of event in Southport – in which three little girls were stabbed to death and many others were injured.
Police say their officers were attacked and subjected to assault and abuse as trouble flared around Downing Street, Whitehall and Parliament Square..
“Ahead of the protest we imposed a number of conditions using Public Order Act powers, including on location of the protest and finish time. It became clear very early in the evening that many of those attending had no intention of acting peacefully or cooperating with officers,” the Met said.
“Bottles, flares, and other objects were thrown at officers. One of our colleagues was punched in the chest and another kicked multiple times, both received injuries.”
Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist said: “Last night our officers faced unacceptable scenes of disorder and violence, as others across the country have done in recent days. They acted with great courage and the highest levels of professionalism in the face of hateful behaviour.
“All our thoughts should be with the victims and families of those impacted by the most dreadful attack in Southport. It is shameful that some have sought to exploit this tragedy as justification for their own violence and criminality.
“There is absolutely no place for this on our streets. We will ensure that anyone involved in any violent disorder and criminal behaviour will be stopped, arrested and will face justice.”
One man was arrested for possession of offensive weapons – seven knives, one catapult with ammunition and nunchucks and a total of 27 were detained for failing to comply with conditions applied to the protest.
Violent disorder accounted for 16 arrests – one of which was also wanted for burglary and another was also arrested for failing to comply with conditions.
Two were held following an assault on Emergency worker – one of which was also arrested for failing to comply with conditions imposed. Two more were arrested for racially/religiously aggravated behaviour, causing fear of violence
One man was found with unlawful possession of Class A drugs and two were collared for breach of dispersal orders.
A further 60 people were arrested during the protest for failing to comply with conditions on the protest under Section 14 Public Order Act 1986. They were not taken in to custody but remain under investigation.
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