Police hunt 20 men linked to violence near Cenotaph on Remembrance Day
Police are trying to identify 20 men who took part in a “counter protest” that saw violent scenes near the Cenotaph on Remembrance Day.
On November 11, there were several incidents of violent disorder across central London, including in and around Whitehall.
Police are investigating a range of offences including inciting racial hatred, racially aggravated public order offences and assault on police officers.
On the day, officers made 145 arrests for offences for possession of weapons, criminal damage, public order, inciting racial hatred and possession of drugs.
On the same day, organisers of a pro-Palestine march estimated around 800,000 people joined a march in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, which started in Hyde Park and ended outside the US embassy in Nine Elms.
In the lead up to the Palestine protest – that saw largely peaceful protestors take to the streets of Westminster calling for a ceasefire in Gaza – Suella Braverman, who has since been sacked as Home Secretary, hit out at the demonstrations, describing them as “hate marches”.
Commander Kyle Gordon said: “Public order policing doesn’t end when the event is over, and since Remembrance weekend, our teams have been working around the clock to identify those involved in any criminality that took place on the day.
“They’ve trawled through hundreds of hours of CCTV footage and are continuing to review evidence to help with enquiries.
“We need the public’s help to track down these men, who we want to speak to in connection with a range of offences.
“As with any public order event, we know that people may have travelled from outside of London, so we’re asking for people across the country to take a look at those pictured and get in touch if they recognise anyone.”
A spokesman from the Met said: “Anyone with information is asked to contact police by calling on 0208 246 9386 quoting Operation Brocks. You can also tweet @MetCC.
“To remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Pictured top: The 20 men police would like to identify after the violent counter protest on Armistice Day (Picture: The Met)