Police in London have arrested 12 people during raids on three premises, including a warehouse used by Extinction Rebellion, in what they describe as a pre-emptive move ahead of planned protests against media owners this weekend.
Scotland Yard said officers seized bamboo structures, lock-on equipment and other items that could be used to cause criminal damage or obstruction. The raids also targeted the Antepavilion arts centre in Hoxton, which is exhibiting a bamboo watchtower resembling structures used in last year's blockade of printing plants.
The force said it had taken "proactive action to prevent and reduce criminal disruption" intended for media business locations. Extinction Rebellion, alongside supporters of Black Lives Matter, is planning further demonstrations against the owners of UK press outlets.
The group questioned the raid on Antepavilion, saying activists were making art. However, Antepavilion later clarified that the installation was "made anew from materials under our control ... specifically for the purpose of display as an artwork", and was not used in the blockade.
Police are preparing for a busy weekend, with marches planned in Westminster, Lambeth and Southwark, and a climate crisis demonstration due to gather in Parliament Square at midday on Sunday. Activists have accused Home Secretary Priti Patel of putting pressure on police to crack down on their demonstrations.
Ch Insp Joe Stokoe of the Met's public order command said: "We believe certain protest groups are specifically intending to disrupt some business locations or potentially cause criminal damage to property." Activist Nuala Gathercole Lam said: "This is what happens when you take peaceful protest action to the true centres of power in this country."
