• We extend our support to people affected by the tragic events that are taking place in the Middle East.
• Protests in London are expected over the coming days and we are working closely with the Metropolitan Police Service to monitor any impact in the City of London.
• City of London Police have increased patrols and our Dedicated Ward Officers will be more visible as they seek to reassure our communities.
• We will be liaising with residents, places of worship and businesses to keep them safe and protected.
• We are aware of incidents occurring in London and will respond swiftly to any incidents of concern here in the city.
• Protests may continue in parts of the UK, and appropriate policing plans are in place to balance the right to lawfully protest against any disruption to Londoners.
• Behaviour crossing the line into criminality will not be tolerated in the city and we will take the strongest action against perpetrators of hate crime.
• Racial and faith-based discrimination will not be tolerated in any form.
• Victims, members of the public or people feeling vulnerable should report to us by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency or online using www.report-it.org.uk.
Protest can involve the following tactics:
• Graffiti/criminal damage – spraying buildings with paint
• Use of adhesives/glue
• Flares
• Climbing/scaling
• Banner drops
• Roadblocks
• Swarming/rushing/entry to buildings
• Mass email/telephone volumes (denial of service)
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City of London Police advice to businesses in the city:
Whilst there is no specific intelligence currently to suggest any specific venue in the city will be targeted, there has been protest activity, so it is important to review and consider your security arrangements. You will recall during previous campaigns in the city, together with the MPS and LFR we’ve shared security advice – it will serve as a timely reminder:
Your people:
• Ensure all employees are fully briefed.
• Your premises should have a strong, visible management presence who should identify themselves to the police in the event of any trespassing or damage.
• Security officers, where possible, should be highly visible.
• All staff should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security and/or the police.
• Ensure all members of staff are fully aware of any emergency and evacuation procedures.
Your premises:
• Minimise the number of entry points to your premises.
• Ensure the outside areas are clear of debris, dustbins, ladders, tools, or equipment.
• Check that your emergency equipment, grab bags, first aid supplies, and walkie-talkies are in place, easy to get to, and working properly. It is advisable to test them beforehand.
• Check and test building security and emergency systems.
• Ensure CCTV coverage is fully operational and can provide the highest recording resolution possible.
• If your building has scaffolding erected or is in close proximity to scaffolding, let your security staff know.
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Contact us:
• Our advice is that if you see an incident, experience threatening behaviour or are worried about your safety, please contact us by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.
• If you wish to share information/intelligence relating to protests, please email: protests@cityoflondon.police.uk
• Further security advice can be sought from the CoLP website: Home | City of London Police and the National Business Crime Centre website: NBCC National Business Crime Centre
• For timely updates, follow: City of London Police (@CityPolice) / X (twitter.com)