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Greater Manchester Police issue direct statement on today’s lockdown protest

Hundreds of people gathered in Piccadilly Gardens to rally against the recent restrictions put in place across the country by the UK government.

The Manc - 8th November 2020

An anti-lockdown protest swept Manchester city centre today.

Hundreds of people gathered in front of the infamous wall in Piccadilly Gardens to rally against the recent restrictions put in place across the country by the UK government.

The gathering quickly trended on social media with a plethora of videos making their way onto Twitter and Facebook, and it didn’t take long for Greater Manchester residents to begin condemning the organised march en masse.

The protest started in the earlier hours of the afternoon and lasted most of the day as police officers struggled to control it. Hundreds of people then began to march down Market Street and onto Deansgate where it came to a halt in the newly pedestrianised area.

Now, Greater Manchester Police have released a statement directed at the organisers of the demonstration.

It reads: “Today (Sunday 8 November 2020), Greater Manchester Police responded to a large gathering in Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester City Centre.

“I would like to use this opportunity to publically condemn this gathering. Both the organisers and attendees were irresponsible – increasing demand on police who are also responding to calls regarding serious incidents and people who are in immediate danger across Greater Manchester.

“Before and during this gathering, officers followed guidance to engage with the organiser and attendees, explain the restrictions and encourage compliance. Unfortunately, the encouragement was ignored which resulted in officers progressing to enforcement.

“Under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, officers authorised a Section 34 Dispersal Order. They also arrested four people on suspicion of public order offences and issued 24 £200 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs). Enquiries are ongoing to also issue an FPN to the organiser.

“Enquiries have established that one group of attendees travelled to Greater Manchester from Cumbria via coach. The driver and the company they work for have both been reported to the relevant industry regulator.

“Whilst responding to this gathering, a number of officers were injured. This is unacceptable behaviour towards our officers who were simply doing their job and protecting people. Investigators will now work to identify those responsible and ensure they face justice.

“I would also like to remind members of the public that these restrictions are to control the spread of Covid-19 and protect everyone – including you and your loved ones, as well as the NHS. I encourage you to do your bit to fight the virus by complying with the restrictions and staying at home.”

The situation is still ongoing. More to follow.