UK: Thousands gather in London to protest COVID-19 measures on September 26 /update 1

Event

Thousands of people have gathered in London's Trafalgar Square on Saturday, September 26, to protest coronavirus disease (COVID-19) measures in place. While protests are exempt from the government's 'rule-of-six' limiting gatherings, protesters are expected to abide by social distancing measures. Police have stated that they would enforce distancing measures and disperse the crowds as a last resort. The protest comes a week after a similar event in Trafalgar Square, which resulted in 32 arrests and dozens of police officers injured.

A heightened security presence and localized disruptions to transport are to be expected in the vicinity of the protest. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Those in London are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid all protests or demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.