“They arrested six of our organizers and confiscated hundreds of banners, and they won’t tell us why they were arrested or where they are being held,” a Republican activist told AFP in Trafalgar Square in London, including the movement’s chief executive, Graham Smith.
British police on Saturday arrested prominent members of the anti-monarchy “Republic” movement as they prepared to protest against the coronation of King Charles III.
“They arrested six of our organizers and confiscated hundreds of banners, and they won’t tell us why they were arrested or where they are being held,” a Republican activist told AFP in Trafalgar Square in London, including the movement’s chief executive, Graham Smith.
Some nearby spectators chanted “Free Graham Smith!” Others shouted “God save the King” waving UK flags.
There was no immediate comment from the Metropolitan Police in London.
And on its official account on Twitter, the “Jumhuriya” movement confirmed the arrests and the confiscation of the banners. “Is this democracy?” she added.