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Police arrest anti-monarchy group chief Graham Smith ahead of coronation
British police arrested Republic leader Graham Smith and others in “a significant police operation” ahead of King Charles’ coronation on Saturday.
The biggest ceremonial event in London in 70 years, King Charles’ coronation procession and military parade at Westminster Abbey on Saturday drew tens of thousands of spectators.
London police head Mark Rowley warned Friday of a “very low tolerance for disruption”. Over 11,000 police officers patrol central London.
Police did not confirm Smith’s arrest but tweeted that they had detained four persons for producing a public disturbance and three for possessing items to cause criminal damage.
Republic reported arresting five supporters and seizing hundreds of posters.
Twitter showed Smith sitting on the ground surrounded by police. An officer in Trafalgar Square reported three republican demonstrators arrested for carrying paint.
A Reuters photographer reported arrests of Just Stop Oil environmental protestors.
Rowley said police will intervene if demonstrators “obstruct the enjoyment and celebration” of a large group.