A woman has been charged in connection with Saturday’s protests, police said – as the force responded to criticism of its handling of a counter-demonstration.
The 27-year-old woman, who Thames Valley Police was unable to name, has been charged with failing to remove a face mask when requested to do so by a constable. Police said the alleged offence was committed in Turl Street on Saturday.
A London man, 37, was arrested in Turl Street for the same offence. He has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.
Another woman, 25, of no fixed address, was arrested on suspicion of disorderly behaviour. She has been released with no further action.
A 63-year-old Luton man was arrested on suspicion of threatening behaviour. He was dealt with by way of a community resolution.
READ MORE: Police comment on anti-LTN protest
This morning (February 20), Thames Valley Police responded to videos circulating online claiming that people had taken little or no action against those involved in a counter-protest on Saturday. A masked group traded insults with those taking part in the anti-LTN protest, accusing a group – which included ‘white nationalist’ group Patriotic Alternative’s Joe Marsh – of being racist and ‘Nazis’.
A spokesman for the force said: “TVP is aware of a number of videos circulating on social media showing a group of counter-protesters at Saturday’s demonstrations in Oxford over the Low Traffic Neighbourhoods and proposed traffic filters.
“Throughout the day on Saturday, Thames Valley Police’s primary objective was to ensure the safety of all those in attendance, policing by consent, while upholding the public’s right to demonstration.
“Our operational objectives were met and the day’s events passed largely in a peaceful manner, with the overwhelming majority of the thousands in attendance, co-operating with officers, while exercising their democratic rights.”
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