image sourced from original article at A Metropolitan Police officer was praised for his composure after a pro-Palestine activist repeatedly banged a metal pot next to his ear during a protest in London. The officer remained calm and ignored the loud provocation, despite the noisy rally and chants from demonstrators. Social media users commended the officer's patience, while criticizing the activist's disruptive behavior.
The protest took place in Parliament Square, where hundreds of activists gathered in support of the recently banned group Palestine Action. The demonstration led to the arrest of 365 people for supporting a proscribed organization, with additional arrests for assaulting police officers. Over 850 officers were deployed to manage the event, which was described as a costly strain on police resources.
Officials estimate that the day's policing and legal costs could reach up to £3 million, adding to the more than £53 million already spent on similar protests since October 2023. The Metropolitan Police set up a temporary processing point to handle the large number of detainees, who were bailed pending further legal proceedings.
