Police in clashes with city anti-lockdown protesters
POLICE said 16 people had been arrested and nine officers injured following clashes at antilockdown demonstrations in central London.
Thousands of people massed in Trafalgar Square yesterday carrying a variety of signs, flags and placards to take part in a “we do not consent” rally – with none appearing to wear face coverings or to social distance.
But officers clashed with protesters when police tried to shut the event down because crowds were not complying with social-distancing rules.
Bottles were thrown and police used batons against protesters, leaving some with visible injuries.
At least three protesters and one officer were treated by medical staff.
Scotland Yard said 16 people had been arrested following the demonstration, which moved from Trafalgar Square to Hyde Park.
A total of nine officers were injured, two of whom required hospital treatment, the force added.
The Metropolitan Police said the protest was stopped because crowds had not complied with social distancing and risked spreading coronavirus.
The force said demonstrators were asked to leave and warned that anyone who stayed could be subject to enforcement action.
Officers penned the crowd in Trafalgar Square and water was thrown at them by demonstrators, while crowds also chanted “pick your side” at the officers.
Police removed sound equipment from Trafalgar Square and several protesters were led away in handcuffs.
Another demonstrator was physically carried away from the scene by officers.
Commander Ade Adelekan said: “As the crowds began to swell in Trafalgar Square, it became impossible for people to maintain social distancing and keep each other safe.
“Likewise, there appeared to be no efforts by organisers to engage with crowds and keep those assembling safe from transmitting the virus.”