Commander Karen Findlay Leads Operation to Prevent Disruption of Coronation Procession

Alex Lee 7 May 2023

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Commander Karen Findlay leading police operation during Coronation procession — Coronation

In an effort to maintain order and prevent disruption during the Coronation procession, Commander Karen Findlay is leading a significant police operation. The operation was launched after receiving credible information about protesters who were determined to disrupt the event by defacing public monuments, breaching barriers, and obstructing official movements. The Commander has made it clear that the police’s tolerance for any form of disruption, whether through protest or otherwise, will be low, and robust action will be taken against individuals attempting to undermine the celebration.

As a result of the ongoing operation, a total of 52 arrests have been made. The charges against the arrested individuals include affray, public order offenses, breach of the peace, and conspiracy to cause a public nuisance. All of the arrested individuals are currently in custody. Commander Findlay emphasized that the police force is maintaining communication with the organizers of a static demonstration taking place in Trafalgar Square, near the junction with Whitehall.

Responding to public concerns about the arrests made, Commander Findlay acknowledged that protest is a lawful activity that can be disruptive. However, she stressed that the police have policed numerous protests without intervention both in the lead-up to the Coronation and during the event. The Commander asserted that their duty is to handle protests in a proportionate manner, in accordance with relevant legislation. At the same time, they have an obligation to intervene when protests turn criminal and have the potential to cause serious disruptions. The context of the Coronation being a once-in-a-generation event is a significant factor in their assessment of the situation. Notably, a protest involving large numbers proceeded today with the knowledge of the police, and no intervention was necessary.

Breakdown of Arrests

One person was arrested on Charing Cross Road, Westminster, on suspicion of affray.
One person was arrested near Green Park Station, Westminster, on suspicion of racially aggravated behavior likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress.
One person was arrested at Leicester Square, Westminster, on suspicion of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance.
Three people were arrested in Soho, Westminster, on suspicion of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance.
Two people were arrested at St James’ Park, Westminster, to prevent a breach of the peace.
Six people were arrested at St Martin’s Lane, Westminster, on suspicion of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance.
One person was arrested at Trafalgar Square, Westminster, on suspicion of sexual assault (sexual touching).
Fourteen people were arrested on The Mall, Westminster, 13 of whom were arrested to prevent a breach of the peace. The 14th person was arrested for possession of drugs and possession of a knife.
Three people were arrested at Wellington Arch, Westminster, on suspicion of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance.
Six people were arrested on Whitehall, five of whom were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance. The sixth person was arrested for religiously aggravated behavior likely to cause harassment, alarm, or distress.
Fourteen people were arrested in East London on suspicion of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance.