The UK Metropolitan Police arrested multiple protesters Saturday, including some associated with anti-monarchy group Republic, as they prepared to protest the coronation of King Charles III.  According to the police, some protesters intended to use rape alarms to protest the coronation, which could scare horses and create public safety risks. However, human rights groups such as Amnesty International have called the arrests ‘disturbing’ and ‘heavy-handed anti-protest policing at its crudest.’

A press release issued by Republic described the arrests as an ‘attack on democracy and fundamental rights’. Republic says the arrests took place while they were unloading placards from their truck before the protest itself had taken place. The group had been issued a warning before the coronation, saying that the 2023 Public Order Act had been incorporated into the law and that it gives police more powers of arrest ‘prevent public disruption’ resulting from protests.

Activist groups view the arrests as an attack on the right to protest, especially after the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 received royal assent last year. Republic CEO Graham Smith says that the arrests were ‘predetermined’ and were to occur ‘regardless of the evidence or actions’. He also claimed that:

These arrests have also destroyed whatever trust might have existed between peaceful protesters and the Metropolitan police. What is the point in being open and candid with the police, working with their liaison officers and meeting senior commanders, if all their promises and undertakings turn out to be a lie?

Gram concluded that Republic will continue to be active despite the arrests.

Labour MP Clive Lewis is a supporter of Republic, and planned to speak at the protest.

Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan stated they are “aware of and understand” the concerns raised by various groups as a result of these arrests and are continuing to investigate.