LONDON, Feb 12 (NNN-AGENCIES) — People wearing face coverings, masks and using fireworks at protests in England will face arrest by police under new laws to suppress disorder.
The move follows a police chief’s warning that some protesters are using face coverings to hide their identities, intimidate law-abiding citizens and avoid criminal charges.
Police already have the power to ask people to remove their face coverings in places where they believe crime may occur.
But the new law allows police to arrest those who flout the order, with violators facing up to a month in jail and a £1,000 fine.
Flares and other fireworks will also be banned during protests and participants will no longer be able to use their right to protest as a reasonable excuse to get away with public order offenses. , like blocking the road.
Recently, violent protesters shot flares and fireworks at police officers.
The upcoming Criminal Justice Bill will also consider climbing war memorials as a breach of public order, punishable by up to three months in prison and a £1,000 fine.
