The first 24 hours of Extinction Rebellion protests in London have already seen more than 60 people arrested.
The environmental action group, also known as XR, promises to cause ‘major disruption’ across the capital over the next fortnight as members call on the Government to make serious changes to tackle the climate crisis.
XR leaders told Londoners to expect ‘a few surprises’ between August 22 and September 5, as the campaigners warn the world is running out of time to avoid an environmental meltdown.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that as of 10.15pm last night, 52 arrests had been made for a ‘variety’ of offences. Another 10 arrests were made on Sunday.
The force previously told Metro.co.uk it had comprehensive plans to deal with the group, saying officers will aim to minimise disruption.
It added it recognises the ‘important cause’ but hopes to reduce any negative impact ahead of a busy bank holiday weekend in the capital.
Yesterday saw activists set up a giant pink table in the middle of a junction in Covent Garden, painted with the slogan ‘come to the table’ urging people to engage with climate policy. It is still in central London this morning.
The group also played a party game in the street, claiming global leaders were playing ‘musical chairs’ and ‘passing the buck’ over the environment.
They also blocked Trafalgar Square with a marching band to draw attention. Hundreds of protesters were seen in the road next to Nelson’s Column, with a heavy police presence surrounding them.
One demonstrator allegedly glued himself on top of a van.
It comes after an ‘opening ceremony’ was held at the Guildhall – the centre of Government for the City of London – on Sunday, which saw people spray red paint over the walls.
XR co-founder Gail Bradbrook opened the ‘Impossible Rebellion’ with a speech expressing solidarity with nations that are disproportionately affected by climate change.
It is not yet clear what activists are planning for today, but the XR website says the Welsh branch of the organisation are meeting in St James’s Park from 10am.
A Facebook event calls today’s action ‘not in our name’ and shared the message: ‘The Welsh dragon is breathing fire again.’
Daily events on the website appear to target central London areas, with the City expected to see most of the action through next week.
XR Bristol’s Verel Rodrigues previously told Metro.co.uk: ‘We’re calling on everyone who is worried about what’s going on and unsure what to do about it to join us in our own crisis talks to express their frustration at government inaction.
‘Expect a warm welcome, great speakers, loud music, bright colours, plenty of disruptive direct action and a few surprises.’
When XR protesters caused major disruption in London in 2019, more than 1,100 people were arrested and the city was brought to a standstill for days.
Major bridges and roads were closed and activists parked a giant pink boat in Oxford Circus.
Last year’s efforts were hampered by the coronavirus crisis.
The group said it would not target public transport again this year after widespread criticism following previous demonstrations.
Several celebrities have already backed the cause, including Stephen Fry and Game of Thrones actor Jerome Flynn.
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