...By Muyiwa Aderinto for TDPel Media.
Met Police Makes Arrests on Coronation Day Amidst Controversy
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a total of 64 arrests were made during the coronation of King Charles, with arrests made for a range of offenses including breach of the peace, sexual assault, and conspiracy to cause public nuisance.
The arrests have raised concerns over the alleged heavy-handed treatment of anti-monarchists by Scotland Yard.
The arrest of Republic campaigners, including its chief executive Graham Smith, as well as the arrest of two women and a man on accusations of planning to throw rape alarms at horses during the event, have particularly drawn attention.
Police Confrontation with Just Stop Oil Activists
Protesters took to the streets during the coronation, with many demonstrating against government action on climate change.
At Marble Arch and around Piccadilly, Just Stop Oil activists staged a slow march, disrupting travel and infuriating motorists who beeped their horns in protest.
Video footage from Marble Arch posted online showed a protester named Sophie accusing the government of not safeguarding the future of younger generations by opening new oil and gas licenses.
A confrontation between the activists and a Range Rover driver with a child in the passenger seat also made headlines after the driver shouted obscenities at the protesters.
Arrests on Coronation Day
Scotland Yard made a total of 64 arrests during the coronation, with four charges being brought so far.
Despite concerns over the heavy-handed treatment of protesters, police officials defended their actions, arguing that they had to intervene when protests became criminal and may cause serious disruption.
The coronation was a once-in-a-generation event, and the police had a duty to ensure public safety in a proportionate manner in line with relevant legislation.
The charged individuals will appear in Westminster Magistrates’ Court over the course of this month.
Commentary
The arrests on the coronation day have raised concerns over the perceived heavy-handedness of Scotland Yard’s approach towards anti-monarchist campaigners.
This has led to calls for explanations from the police and the mayor’s office. While the police have defended their actions, it is important to ensure that protests are policed in a proportionate and lawful manner, as protest is an essential part of democracy.
Additionally, the confrontation between the Range Rover driver and the Just Stop Oil activists highlights the potential for tense situations to arise during protests, and the need for both sides to exercise restraint and respect each other’s right to protest and travel freely.
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