Met Police Under Fire for Handling of Pro-Palestine Protest, Calls for Inquiry Intensify

January 31, 2025
Met Police Under Fire for Handling of Pro-Palestine Protest, Calls for Inquiry Intensify
  • 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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