Disturbing footage has surfaced from a protest outside the French Embassy in London, showing a man openly cheering the horrific Charlie Hebdo terror attack. The incident, which occurred during a demonstration on Thursday, has been met with universal condemnation and triggered an immediate Metropolitan Police investigation.
The video, which circulated widely on social media, captures the moment a man in the crowd raises his hands in celebration upon hearing the Charlie Hebdo massacre mentioned by a speaker. The 2015 attack in Paris saw Islamic extremists murder 12 people at the satirical magazine's office.
Met Police Launch Urgent Investigation
Scotland Yard has confirmed it is treating the incident with the utmost seriousness. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated: "We are aware of a video shared online showing a man celebrating the Charlie Hebdo attack. Officers are assessing the content and carrying out enquiries. The matter is being investigated by officers from the Met's Counter Terrorism Command."
The protest itself was organised in response to recent comments by French President Emmanuel Macron, with demonstrators gathering in Knightsbridge. The appearance of the individual glorifying a designated terrorist atrocity, however, swiftly shifted attention towards issues of extremism and free speech in the UK capital.
Political and Public Outrage
The footage prompted swift and fierce criticism from across the political spectrum and the public. Many expressed horror and revulsion that such a celebration of terrorism could occur on the streets of London.
This event raises serious questions about the boundaries of protest and the monitoring of extremist sentiments in public demonstrations. The Met's decision to involve its Counter Terrorism Command underscores the severity with which authorities are treating the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing as police work to identify the individual involved.
