Police launch dispersal order in Manchester ahead of protests
Demonstrations were due to take place in the city centre on Saturday
Last updated 3rd Aug 2024
Greater Manchester Police have been given powers to disperse large groups of people ahead of demonstrations in the city.
The Section 34 dispersal notice, which allows officers to break up groups of people expected to be taking part in anti-social behaviour, was brought in on Saturday morning (August 3rd).
Under the order, anyone within the Inner Ring Road of the city centre who is suspected to be taking part in anti-social behaviour can be removed from the area.
The order will run until 7pm in the evening, and includes the entirety of the city centre - as well as the Ancoats area in the north east of the city.
Police will also be able to seize any items that may be used in anti-social behaviour, as protests by far-right demonstrators and counter-protests are set to descent on the city.
Speaking on the announcement, Chief Inspector Natasha Evans from Greater Manchester Police said: "These powers have been authorised to make sure we can continue to provide and facilitate the right to any peaceful protests that have been organised.
"Our officers will be able to instruct and advise anyone who is causing, or very likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress to leave an area immediately. "
She added: "People have a legal right to participate in peaceful protest, however where people are intent on breaking the law, we will take action."
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