Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine said: “This evening more than 1,000 officers were deployed in London ready to respond to events planned across the city. They were ready to protect our communities from hateful, divisive and violent behaviour.
“Two large anti-racism protests took place in Waltham Forest and Finchley. The majority of people engaged with officers and complied with conditions. These events passed without major incident or disruption.
“However, officers did face anti-social behaviour from a small group in Croydon who were not related to any protest, but were intent on causing trouble.
“Our top priority has been to keep our communities safe, prevent significant disorder and swiftly deal with any offenders. A number of arrests were made across the city this evening.
“We used a range of powers as part of our policing operation in order to keep people safe. This included the use of Section 60 and 60AA powers across various locations, giving officers extra powers to stop and search people and request the removal of face coverings. As a result, officers seized a number of weapons.
“I want to thank our communities for coming together across the capital and for showing community spirit this evening. I would also like to thank the committed officers who have been working hard to police London today, serving their communities and keeping people safe.”
Arrest breakdown so far
10 in Croydon for the following offences:
- 1 x assault on an emergency worker
- 4 x breaching a Section 35 dispersal order
- 1 x going equipped for arson
- 4 x violent disorder
Four in Waltham Forest for the following offences:
- 2 x offensive weapon (a lock knife and a golf club)
- 1 x drunk and disorderly
- 1 x obstructing a Section 60 search
One in Hounslow for the following offence:
- 1 x possession of an offensive weapon