Appeal over toppling of Colston statue

Detectives investigating the toppling of the statue of slave trader Edward Colston during a Black Lives Matter protest have released images of 15 people they wish to speak to.

The monument to the 17th century merchant was pulled from its plinth in Bristol city centre with ropes at about 2.30pm on 7 June.

It was sprayed with paint and attacked before being dragged to the harbourside, where it was thrown into the water near Pero’s Bridge – named in honour of an enslaved man.

Officers from Avon and Somerset Police made a tactical decision not to intervene at the time but launched a criminal damage investigation a short time after.

The force has identified 18 people that officers want to speak to about the incident, with images of 15 of these released today.

Detective Superintendent Liz Hughes said: “The incident attracted worldwide attention and there’s no denying it has polarised public opinion – but in the eyes of the law a crime has been committed and we’re duty-bound to investigate this without fear or favour.

“I’d like to reassure people we’re carrying out a thorough, fair and proportionate investigation and have sought early investigative advice from the Crown Prosecution Service.”

It is understood that Bristol City Council has provided a statement to police about the incident. The council retrieved the statue, which will now be displayed in a museum along with placards from the Black Lives Matter protest