By James Simons-
Protests in central London on Saturday have resulted in charges against six individuals, according to Scotland Yard. The Metropolitan Police noted that a dispersal order was authorized at 6.43 pm and remained in place until 1 am on Sunday.
With more than 1,300 officers on duty as tens of thousands demonstrated in London, 29 people were arrested during the protests.
Those charged are facing offenses related to their failure to comply with conditions imposed under the Public Order Act or the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act.
A new arrest was made on Sunday for a public order offense after a man was allegedly heard making antisemitic comments in Parliament Square, the Met said.
During the demonstrations, intelligence was received regarding a pamphlet supporting Hamas purportedly being on sale. Counter-terrorism officers are currently reviewing a copy of the pamphlet.
The police also reported an “increase in violence” against officers, with four officers injured when fireworks were thrown in their direction.
Commander Karen Findlay, responsible for policing in London during the protests, commented on the situation, stating, “While the vast majority of people demonstrated peacefully, there were various breakaway groups whose behavior was completely unacceptable. Our response was quick and decisive.”
In addition to the six individuals charged, four of those arrested have been referred to their “local youth offending teams.” The police are actively reviewing footage and will arrest people when “alerted to crimes fueled by hate,” according to Commander Findlay.
Looking ahead to next weekend’s Remembrance events, Commander Findlay emphasized that officers will closely monitor and review all available information. She added, “We fully appreciate the national significance of Armistice Day.
Thousands of officers will be deployed in an extensive security operation, and we will use all powers and tactics at our disposal to ensure that anyone intent on disrupting it will not succeed.”