A protest in Westminster organized by various groups ended in violence on Tuesday night, with injuries to police officers and 40 arrests. The Metropolitan Police are investigating the incident that occurred during the permitted demonstration.
On Tuesday night, a protest in Westminster, organized by a coalition of groups including the Palestine Solidarity Group, resulted in injuries and arrests. The event, which began at 6pm and was permitted until 8pm, saw a crowd of between 8,000 and 10,000 people. Most demonstrators dispersed peacefully, but a group of about 500 remained, prompting police action.
During the unrest, three police officers were injured. One officer sustained a serious facial injury from a bottle thrown by an unidentified suspect, while two others sustained minor injuries. The Metropolitan Police are investigating the incident.
As the smaller group resisted arrest, law enforcement used force to manage the situation. The protest moved to Bridge Street, where police established cordons. By 10pm, officers began detaining those suspected of leading the renewed protest. A total of 40 individuals were arrested for offenses including breaching the Public Order Act, obstruction of a highway, and assaulting emergency workers. The area was cleared, and Bridge Street was reopened by 2am on Wednesday.