Million Mask March 2021: Met Police warn of ‘disorder and violence’ ahead of Anonymous demo in central London

The Met Police have warned of potential “disorder and violence” from protestors in London today, with specialist riot officers being mobilised across the capital.

It comes as supporters of hacktivist group Anonymous are set to stage the annual Million Mask March in London this evening (Friday, November 5).

The Met have warned officers may be “targeted with violence” at protests across the capital today - and have scrambled specialist riot units.

But Scotland Yard, which is understood to have concerns about disorder from anti-vaxxers, would not confirm whether these were linked to the Anonymous march at Trafalgar Square.

The demonstration is usually held at locations around the world on Bonfire Night, the anniversary of Guy Fawkes’ attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament, and is partly inspired by the dystopian film V for Vendetta.

The Met said: “Intelligence suggests some groups are intent on causing disorder or targeting police officers with violence.”

More than 100 arrests were made at last year’s march, which fell on the first day of the UK’s second coronavirus lockdown, and saw anti-lockdown protestors mix with Anonymous’ anti-government activists.

A statement on the Million Mask March 2021 event on Facebook, posted by Anonymous, reads: “Years of political chaos and abuse inflicted on the people by an elite establishment intent on lining their pockets.

“We urge you to rise as one and join us in the largest MMM to date!!! The time is NOW #ExpectUsUK.”

The group have stated that it supports the wearing of masks for the event and that “social distancing is expected”.

The Met is staging a “significant” police operation across the city today and has said it will work closely with protest groups to ensure gatherings are safe and limit disorder.

Officers will be in riot gear with protective barriers, and public order teams, horseback officers, police dogs and helicopters will be deployed.

Deputy assistant commissioner Jane Connors said: “Residents and visitors to central London today can expect to see a higher number of police officers on duty to keep people safe and to respond quickly to any potential disorder or violence.

“Groups of course have the right to protest, but I am particularly concerned that some groups are specifically intending to travel into London to deliberately cause violence and disorder including targeting police officers. This will not be tolerated.

“Our patrols will be highly visible and we will be working closely throughout the operation with the City of London Police and the British Transport Police.”