Met release pictures of student protest suspects

2010-12-12 1


Scotland Yard have released pictures of 14 people who are wanted in connection with violence during the tuition fee demonstrations.


Police launched a public order investigation, Operation Malone, to cover all fee protests held from November 10, when students stormed Tory headquarters in Millbank, until Thursday's demonstration in Parliament Square.


Following the latest protest, Prime Minister David Cameron demanded that demonstrators who defaced war memorials and attacked the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall face the "full force of the law".


A total of 175 people were arrested during the four demonstrations, including 34 who were detained on Thursday after havoc in central London left dozens of officers and protesters injured.


Detective Chief Superintendent Matthew Horne, leading the investigation, said: "We want the public to help us identify these people who may have been involved in violent disorder, attacking police officers and smashing buildings, shops and windows.


"The vast majority of the people we are seeking are suspected of committing serious offences of violent disorder and criminal damage.


"The rights of protest and expression are important to us all. However, people breaking the law, endangering those protesting peacefully and committing offences such as this are criminals.


"We will investigate them and where we have the evidence we will arrest them. If you know who any of these people are, please let us know."


The team, which is reviewing hours of CCTV and police footage, urged anyone with information about the suspects to call 020 8358 0100 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.


Charlie Gilmour, son of Pink Floyd frontman David, apologised after being identified as one of those who climbed on the Cenotaph, the nation's monument to its war dead, as thousands of youngsters vented their fury over the decision by MPs to treble university fees to a maximum of £9,000 a year.


Among the most shocking episodes was the attack on a Rolls-Royce carrying Charles and Camilla by a gang who smashed a window and threw paint while shouting "Off with their heads!"

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