Understand
Police given temporary dispersal powers and face-covering ban ahead of Bristol protests
Overview
Avon and Somerset Police have implemented temporary dispersal powers and a ban on face coverings in Bristol city centre ahead of a planned protest and counter-protest. The measures are active from 16:00 to 23:00 BST, enabling officers to move individuals causing harassment, alarm or distress, and to address face coverings used to conceal identities. Police stated that anyone failing to comply may face arrest and prosecution.
Key points
- Temporary police powers and a dispersal zone have been put in place in Bristol city centre ahead of a planned protest and counter-protest.
- The measures are active from 16:00 until 23:00 BST.
- A ban on face coverings and items used to conceal identity is included in the temporary powers.
- The dispersal zone allows officers to move on groups or individuals causing or likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.
- Police warned that failure to comply with the restrictions could lead to arrest and prosecution.
- Ch Insp Keith Smith emphasised that lawful expression is permitted, but criminality will be met with police action either immediately or at a later stage.