Cops urge pro-Palestine protesters to ‘urgently reconsider’ Remembrance Sunday march over fears of escalating violence
THE Metropolitan Police have urged protesters to “urgently reconsider” any demonstrations over the Armistice weekend.
Senior officers in the force are worried about breakaway groups intent on crime and disorder during the memorial events.
They stressed though that the organisers had undertaken positive work and supported those protesting peacefully since the terror group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 7.
Met cops said they were “constantly examining the intelligence ahead of the weekend and would respond “appropriately”.
Senior Met police met with organisers from a number of groups earlier today to discuss concerns.
They declined to postpone any demonstrations.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan said: “The risk of violence and disorder linked to breakaway groups is growing.
“This is of concern ahead of a significant and busy weekend in the capital.
“Our message to organisers is clear: Please, we ask you to urgently reconsider. It is not appropriate to hold any protests in London this weekend.”
Since October 7, more than 160 people have been arrested for a range of offences, including racially motivated public offences, violence and assaulting police officers.
There has been an escalation in violence and disorder linked to protests, often perpetrated by breakaway groups who have no interest in demonstration causes.
The move comes after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said any such demos would be “provocative and disrespectful”.
Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho earlier said “the culture of this country” will not accept disruption to the Remembrance commemorations as she revealed “very serious concerns” about public order risks.
Other senior politicians, veterans and campaigners said events this weekend need to be respected as the nation remembers our fallen heroes.
The police have raised concerns that breakaway groups intent on causing public disorder will carry out criminal acts.
Hate crime also continues to rise significantly, with one suspect using PA equipment arrested on Saturday on suspicion of making anti-Semitic comments.
More than 554 reports of anti-Semitic offences and 220 Islamophobic offences have been received between October 1 and November 1, 2023.