The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has informed the Metropolitan Police that all 21 individuals arrested during the King’s Coronation policing operation on May 6, 2023, will face no further action. The arrests took place in The Mall and Whitehall and were made to prevent breaches of the peace and on suspicion of conspiracy to cause public nuisance.
The Metropolitan Police referred the cases to the CPS in August 2023 for a legal review. After a thorough examination, prosecutors concluded there was no realistic prospect of convicting anyone involved.
Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist commented, “Tens of thousands came to London for the King’s Coronation. The Met played a vital role in keeping the event safe and secure.”
In the hours leading up to the Coronation, intelligence indicated potential activist disruptions targeting the procession. Twist emphasized the importance of proactive policing to ensure public safety. “The Met deals with protests thousands of times every year across London,” he said.
The police allowed peaceful protests along the route, including at Trafalgar Square, supported by a comprehensive policing plan.
Regarding why the arrests did not lead to charges, Twist explained that the transition from arrest to charge requires a high evidential threshold. Officers acted on reasonable suspicion. For example, three suspects caught near the route were found carrying glue, a banner from a known activist group, Allen keys, and other equipment suggesting possible criminal intent.
“We ask for public understanding of the tough decisions officers face daily based on limited information,” said Twist.
Originally published by UKNIP.
