A video has been shared on YouTube of the moment when a group of police officers were surrounded by a crowd of ‘anti-lockdown’ protesters in Hyde Park.
During the incident, several officers were sprayed with what appears to be Mace as they tried to reason with the agitated crowd.
The incident happened shortly after 17:00hrs on Saturday, 26 September, when public order officers were faced with what police have described as a ‘non-compliant and ‘hostile’ crowd.
A total of eight officers suffered irritation to their eyes after a toxic substance was used.
In the 9-minute video clip (scroll down for video), the officers can be seen to try and form a protective bubble around some members of the public who had become caught up in the violence, as hundreds of protestors start shouting abuse at them.
Officers can also be seen trying to reason with the crowd, but as the protestors become angrier, missiles are thrown at the officers, forcing them to break through the mob.
During the incident, a protestor can be seen to enter the shot before spraying the officers with the toxic substance.
The protester then disappears back into the crowd as the officers continue to try and move back.
As the officers continue to come under attack, some of the protestors can be heard ‘cackling’ as missiles and objects continue to rein down on the officers.
Another protester then throws a smoke grenade into the circle of the officers as they continue to try and withdraw from the hostile crowd.
After just under eight minutes, the officers manage to withdraw to an area where additional police resources help to keep the violent group from attacking more officers.
Acting Detective Inspector Chris Rudd, the officer in the case, said:
“Fortunately, none of the officers have suffered any lasting effects from this incident.
“However, a noxious substance was indiscriminately sprayed towards them by someone who displayed a disregard for their welfare.
“I would be grateful for any assistance from the public in identifying the man pictured and helping us to bring those responsible for this assault to justice.”
Anyone who has information concerning his whereabouts should contact police on 101 or Tweet @MetCC quoting CAD 5268/05MAR21.
To remain 100% anonymous, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers.org
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Utterly disgusting behaviour against officers who are in a no win situation, hope they are caught and dealt with severely