British Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised Sunday evening to investigate the role played by London police during the vigil for the murder of Sarah Everard. On Saturday evening, hundreds of people gathered, in violation of Corona’s rules. Then the police acted brutally, leading to riots between the police and some of the vigil participants.
The video and photos posted on social media show how police are curbing and shackling activists. Four people were arrested for violating Corona rules and disturbing public order. There is a negative reaction from politicians to how the police handled the vigils.
“Like anyone who has seen it, I am very concerned about the Clapham Common photos on Saturday night,” Johnson said, referring to the south London park where the vigil was held. London Mayor Sadiq Khan describes the scenes as “unacceptable”.
Enforcement resulted in “physical assault”
The organization behind the vigil, Reclaim This Streets, is furious with agents “physically assaulting women during a vigil against male violence.” On Monday, Johnson said he would meet with a justice working group to discuss violence against women.
According to London Police, enforcement was necessary. “We repeatedly asked those in attendance to obey the laws and leave. Unfortunately, a small minority started chanting, pushing and throwing things at the officers,” said Assistant Commissioner Helen Ball.
Sarah Everard disappeared on March 3 while traveling on foot in her hometown of London. Earlier this week, her body was found and 48-year-old Agent Wayne Cousins was arrested as the prime suspect. A thirty-year-old woman, presumably his wife, has been arrested on suspicion of complicity.
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