Sir Mark Rowley defends coronation police after ‘unfortunate protest arrests’

Sir Mark Rowley, the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, defended the policing of the coronation, describing the arrest of six anti-monarchy activists as “unfortunate”, but stressed he supported the actions of the officers who made the arrests.

Sir Mark said in a statement: “The coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla was a historic moment of great national importance. We are proud to have successfully ensured his safety and security despite the most demanding, fast-moving and complex policing picture that we ever met her for a national celebration.

“This was the biggest security operation ever run by the Metropolitan Police – 11,500 officers, staff and volunteers from across the Met, along with those joining us from across the UK and overseas, did an incredible job alongside more than 6,500 military ceremonial units.”

He added: “Much of the ill-informed commentary today is completely inaccurate – for example the protest was not banned. I want to be absolutely clear – our activity was directed at those we believed were intent on causing serious disruption and crime.

“Serious and reliable intelligence has told us that the risks are very real. 53 individuals have been released on bail and most of the subsequent inquiries will be lengthy as we seek criminal charges.

“However, after reviewing the evidence, we will not be taking any action against the six republican protesters who were arrested. Police searched the vehicle on Saturday morning and found items they believed at the time could have been used as part of the ‘lockdown’- As I would expect, the officers were, who made the arrest, alert, inquisitive and proactive They formed the ‘reasonable suspicion’ required to make an arrest for an offense under the new section 2 of the Public Order Act 2023 and were equipped to lock down and were the only arrests in accordance with the new legislation. After the current review of the evidence and possible investigations, we do not estimate that we will be able to prove criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt.

“While it is unfortunate that the six people affected were unable to join the hundreds of peaceful protesters, I support the actions of the officers in this unique, rapidly evolving operational context.”

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