After heavy criticism of the arrests of several opponents of the monarchy on the coronation day of King Charles III. the London police have shown themselves to be self-critical. The Metropolitan Police said on Monday evening they regret that six people arrested on Saturday morning were unable to participate in demonstrations in Trafalgar Square or the processional route. Those affected no longer have to fear further consequences.
Several Scotland Yard officials personally apologized to the head of the anti-monarchy organization Republic, Graham Smith, who was forced to spend 16 hours in police custody after Smith openly criticized the police.
“There are many questions that need to be answered”
“They seemed quite embarrassed to be honest,” Smith told the PA news agency. However, the quick apology shows that the police made a serious mistake. However, he did not accept the apology. “There are many questions that need to be answered and we will take action,” Smith said.
A total of 64 arrests
During Saturday’s coronation ceremony, dozens of monarchy opponents and climate activists were arrested before even starting their protest. In total, the police arrested 64 people – according to the authority, there were 52 cases in which the police suspected the people of disturbing public order and thus the coronation ceremonies. To date, four cases have been reported.
The precautionary arrests were made possible by a new law (Law on Public Order), which came into force only a few days before the coronation. Among other things, forms of protest, such as chaining or holding onto objects and other persons, were made punishable. According to critics, this will significantly limit the right to demonstrate.
“It was not our intention to prevent protests,” said the police. Other protests on Coronation Day are said to have taken place.
Source: Krone
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