Protests in Manchester city centre result in just three arrests
Around 1,000 protesters and counter-protesters gathered peacefully in Manchester city centre on 18 April, with only three arrests made despite some attempts to breach police lines. Greater Manchester Police deployed extra officers and used minimal force, including PAVA spray, to maintain order and keep disruption to the wider public low.
A significant policing operation was in place throughout the day (Saturday 18 April) with additional resources deployed and work alongside partner agencies helping the day run smoothly.
Several demonstrations took place peacefully across central Manchester, with the number of attendees fewer than expected but still around 1,000 protestors and counter protestors in total.
Officers worked closely with organisers to ensure people could protest safely and that wider disruption was kept to a minimum.
A total of three people were arrested on suspicion of the following offences:
One male counter protestor on suspicion of breaching Section 60AA of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, which allowed officers to require the removal of face coverings. One male counter protestor on suspicion of assaulting a police officer. One woman on suspicion of breaching the peace. It is unknown if she was part of either group.
The vast majority of both sides caused no issues for our officers. Force was required when counter-protesters had tried to break police lines and attempted to throw punches.
PAVA spray was deployed as a tactic instead of using further additional force.
A small breakaway group of protesters had made their way down the side of the Town Hall.
Officers were later met with resistance as they moved them away from the nearby counter group and some force was required.
A section 34 dispersal order will remain in place until 8pm tonight, allowing officers to direct people to leave the area.
Assistant Chief Constable Rick Jackson said: “We had extra officers on duty to support people’s right to protest peacefully while reducing the impact on the wider public.
“Thanks to the efforts of our officers on the ground and the planning done with our partners, hundreds of people from a range of groups were able to come together safely, with no significant issues reported.
“I hope the work of our officers and partners meant that the general public were able to enjoy their day in Manchester city centre without significant disruption, and I thank them for their cooperation and patience.”
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