Sir Mark Rowley, the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, has defended the policing of the coronation, describing the arrest of six anti-monarchy campaigners as “unfortunate” but stressing that he supports the arresting officers’ actions.
Sir Mark said in a statement: "The coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla was an historic moment of huge national significance. We are proud to have successfully ensured its safety and security despite the most challenging, fast-moving and complex policing picture we have ever encountered for a national celebration.
"This was the largest security operation the Metropolitan Police has ever led - 11,500 officers and staff and volunteers from across the Met, along with those who joined us from across the UK and overseas, did an incredible job alongside over 6,500 military ceremonial troops."
He added: "Much of the ill-informed commentary on the day is wholly inaccurate - for example protest was not banned. I want to be absolutely clear - our activity was targeted at those we believed were intent on causing serious disruption and criminality.
"Serious and reliable intelligence told us that the risks were very real. 53 individuals have been bailed and most of the following investigations will be lengthy as we work towards criminal charges.
"However, on reviewing the evidence we will be taking no further action against the six Republic protesters arrested. Officers searched a vehicle on Saturday morning and found items which at the time they believed could have been used as part of a 'lock on'-style protest. As I would expect, the arresting officers were vigilant, curious and proactive. They formed the 'reasonable suspicion' necessary to arrest for the new Section 2 Public Order Act 2023 offence of being equipped to lock on, and these were the only arrests under the new legislation. Having now reviewed the evidence and potential lines of inquiry, we do not judge that we will be able to prove criminal intent beyond all reasonable doubt.
"While it is unfortunate that the six people affected by this were unable to join the hundreds of peaceful protestors, I support the officers' actions in this unique, fast-moving operational context."
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