Met Police Under Fire for Handling of Pro-Palestine Protest, Calls for Inquiry Intensify
January 31, 2025
Of the 77 individuals arrested, 60 were charged with breaching protest conditions aimed at protecting a nearby synagogue, although many organizers claimed arrests were made without clear warnings.
Despite video evidence suggesting protesters, including political figures like Jeremy Corbyn, were allowed through police lines, they were accused of breaching police restrictions.
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have raised alarms about police conduct during the protest, particularly regarding kettling and violence against vulnerable individuals.
Previous calls for an inquiry have come from legal experts, MPs, and human rights groups, highlighting a growing demand for a review of protest legislation imposed by the Conservative government.
The Metropolitan Police is facing significant scrutiny for its handling of a pro-Palestine protest in central London on January 18, 2025, which led to over 70 arrests.
This protest was marked by restrictions that prevented a march to the BBC's headquarters, escalating tensions between police and organizers, resulting in multiple arrests, including those of prominent figures like PSC director Ben Jamal.
Commander Adam Slonecki accused protest organizers of deliberately breaching police conditions, describing the situation as a serious escalation in criminality.
Green party member Zoë Garbett reported receiving over 150 complaints from attendees about police actions, with many describing them as a gross abuse of power and intimidation.
The Metropolitan Police has stated they are investigating the events surrounding the protest but have refrained from further comments on ongoing inquiries.
With another protest scheduled for February 15, 2025, the police's response will be closely monitored, especially in light of the recent criticisms.
In response to the police's actions, trade union leaders have called for an independent inquiry, emphasizing concerns over heavy-handed policing that threatens democratic rights to protest and strike.
Signatories of a recent letter demanding an inquiry included prominent Labour MPs and members from other parties, reflecting a broad political concern over police conduct.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Jan 31, 2025
Pressure grows on Met over ‘heavy-handed’ policing of pro-Gaza protest
Middle East Eye • Jan 31, 2025
Metropolitan Police faces fresh questions over crackdown on pro-Palestine protest