press release from met police 16/0608Bush visit officers praisedFollowing the visit of United States President George Bush to London, the senior officer in charge of the operation has praised the efforts of the officers involved in dealing with attempts to breach security cordons which saw missiles thrown at police resulting in a number of officers being injured.Deputy Assistant Commissioner Chris Allison, MPS Central Operations said:"We are seriously disappointed by the irresponsible and criminal action of those who have challenged police, physically ripping apart security barriers with the sole aim of breaching security in Whitehall."The acts that we witnessed yesterday were deplorable and cannot be described as lawful demonstration."This visit demanded the very highest of security. It was a team effort from across the Met. Officers diligence undoubtedly significantly contributed to making the President of the United States' farewell visit to London pass off smoothly."I would particularly like to commend the efforts of those officers who maintained the cordons in Parliament Square during the Stop the War Coalition demonstration."What started as a peaceful protest turned as hundreds of demonstrators made concerted efforts to breach police lines and security measures. I could not have asked for a better response as those officers held their line in the face of sustained and unprovoked attack. Facing missiles and extreme provocation your response was measured and professional."Thanks to everyone involved in this operation for a job well done."25 people were arrested for a variety of offences including assaulting police and at least ten officers suffered minor injuries during disorder.A 21-year-old man and a 26-year-old man were arrested and have subsequently been charged with obstructing police and a 60-year-old woman was arrested and subsequently charged with indecent exposure.Seven others have been bailed pending further investigation and three were given words of advice. One 20-year-old man, arrested on suspicion of a public order offence was released with no further action. 11 people remain in custody.Bulletin 0000000890 16 June 2008