AceBreakingNews – Last night during a planned protest on Whitehall, police officers were attacked and subjected to assault, abuse and violent disorder

The following conditions were implemented using the Public Order Act powers ahead of the protest, including the location of the protest and the end time. Early in the evening, it became evident that many present had no intention of behaving peacefully or cooperating with officers.

Officers were targeted with bottles, flares, and other objects. Five officers sustained injuries: one was punched in the chest, one was elbowed in the head, one was kicked in the back, one was kicked in the wrist, and another was kicked multiple times, resulting in injuries.

A total of 111 arrests were made for various offences, including violent disorders, assaults on police officers, possession of knives and offensive weapons, and breach of protest conditions. A team of officers is working to bring charges against those responsible. 

Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist stated, “Last night, our officers encountered unacceptable scenes of disorder and violence, as others across the country have in recent days. They acted with great courage and the highest levels of professionalism in the face of hateful behaviour.”

“All our thoughts should be with the victims and families of those impacted by the most dreadful attack in Southport. It is shameful that some have sought to exploit this tragedy as justification for their own violence and criminality. 

“There is absolutely no place for this on our streets. We will ensure that anyone involved in any violent disorder and criminal behaviour will be stopped, arrested and will face justice.”

Arrest Breakdown

1 x Possession of offensive weapons – seven knives, one catapult with ammunition and nunchucks.

27 x Failing to comply with conditions applied to the protest – Section 14 Public Order Act 1986.

16 x Violent disorder – one of which was also wanted for Burglary and another was also arrested for failing to comply with conditions.

2 x Assault on Emergency worker – one of which was also arrested for failing to comply with conditions imposed. 

2 x Racially/Religiously aggravated causing fear of violence 

1 x Unlawful possession of Class A drugs

2 x Breach of dispersal order

A further 60 people were arrested during the protest for failing to comply with conditions on the protest under Section 14 Public Order Act 1986. They were not taken in to custody but remain under investigation.

Note – this statement was updated at 12:37 1/8/2024 to reflect updated information about officer injuries – five officers were injured (the original statement reflected two officers injured.)

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