Clashes have erupted between police and participants of the annual Million Mask March in London, as anti-establishment demonstrators set off fireworks at officers and burned an effigy of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Protesters marched through Parliament Square, Trafalgar Square, and Oxford Street on Friday, marking the annual Million Mask March, which draws big demonstrations each year on November 5 against government overreach, income inequality, and, more recently, Covid-19 restrictions.
Many demonstrators sported Guy Fawkes masks to honour the fictionalised anti-government character depicted in Alan Moore’s ‘V for Vendetta’ graphic novel, on the commemoration day for the real Fawkes.
“Boris lied, people died,” protesters chanted as they made their way through the streets. At one point, a group of demonstrators burned an effigy of Johnson in protest of the country’s Covid restrictions.
Police eventually moved in on the crowd and clashed with some protesters after fireworks were set off, some reportedly close to officers and other individuals.
Metropolitan Police said in a statement that its officers were forced to “engage” after “a crowd in Parliament Square have been dangerously lighting fireworks and rockets.” Police said they moved into the crowd to “remove any fireworks and prevent people coming to harm.”
The force had earlier announced they were preparing for the demonstrations with a “significant policing plan.” Officers were in London in riot gear, ready for crowds.
Police have announced that nine arrests have been made at the demonstrations and multiple officers have injuries from clashes with protesters.
A dispersal order is in place for various areas across Westminster. “Officers are engaging with those in Parliament Square and will be advising them of this order,” Metro Police tweeted.
At this time, we have made nine arrests during tonight’s operation. Frustratingly, five of our officers have been injured. We are providing them with support.A number of our officers remain in Parliament Square.
— Metropolitan Police Events (@MetPoliceEvents) November 5, 2021
Like this story? Share it with a friend!
Comments are closed.