As thousands of demonstrators clashed with police officers during the London BLM rally, a protestor tried to set fire to the Union Jack flag on The Cenotaph.
Horrific photos show police officers injured as fireworks and missiles are thrown at them, turning a peaceful protest into a violent one as more people joined the march.
The shocking incidents come as protesters continue to increase after the death of George Floyd, an African American who passed away after police officer Derek Chauvin placed his knee on his neck for about nine minutes.
Protestors disobeyed social distancing rules and descended upon the streets around the US embassy in London before going to Westminster, fighting against police brutality and racial injustice.
While most of the demonstrations stayed peaceful, violence started again, with photos showing demonstrators and police officers bleeding during the rally that resulted in 12 arrests.
The Metropolitan Police just confirmed that one arrest had been made for criminal damage after the incident at the Cenotaph but most of the arrests were for public order offenses.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson took to Twitter and wrote: “People have a right to protest peacefully & while observing social distancing but they have no right to attack the police.
“These demonstrations have been subverted by thuggery – and they are a betrayal of the cause they purport to serve. Those responsible will be held to account.”
Superintendent Jo Edwards, a spokesperson for the protests, said: “Regrettably officers were faced with further scenes of violence and disorder following a day of predominantly peaceful protest throughout the capital.
“This is a hugely impassioned movement and we understand the public’s desire to have their voices heard – however it is not right that this passion has turned into violent attacks on officers.”
Edwards added: “I would like to thank our officers, and those from the City of London Police and British Transport Police for their professionalism in the face of entirely unacceptable behaviour.
“Overnight our policing operation will continue and I would urge demonstrators thinking of returning to stay at home. The threat of Coronavirus remains very real, and we need you to protect yourselves, your friends and your family.”
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