Poppy Sellers Assured by Police That They Are Safe
The statement comes after probe is dropped into an alleged attack on an elderly man at a poppy stall ahead of a weekend of pro-Palestine rallies.
Police have moved to reassure poppy sellers that their safety is not at risk following concerns they could be targeted by pro-Palestine protesters.
The statement from British Transport Police came after it said an investigation had been dropped into an alleged attack on an elderly man selling poppies at a train station in Edinburgh.
Jim Henderson, a 78-year-old army veteran, claimed he was punched and kicked as he tried to pack away his stall at Waverley station on Nov. 4.
He told the MailOnline that railway staff had to intervene and lead him to safety as hundreds of protesters filled the station in a demo against the actions of the Israeli government in Gaza.
Speaking on Thursday, assistant chief constable Sean O’Callaghan said there was “insufficient evidence” to pursue Mr. Henderson’s allegations.
“Detectives have extensively monitored CCTV and spoken with key identified witnesses,” he said.
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“There is insufficient evidence to take the investigation further at this time.
“We have no reason to believe that poppy sellers are at any risk or being intentionally targeted.”
Hate Marches
Fears of violence have been ramped up this week as around half a million people are expected to take to the streets in London to demand a ceasefire in Gaza over Armistice weekend.
Metropolitan Police chief Mark Rowley refused to ban the pro-Palestine protests despite pointed public comments by the prime minister and the home secretary.
On Thursday, Suella Braverman described the demonstrations as “hate marches,” accusing the police of favouring left-wing groups over right in a widely criticised article published in the Times of London.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also that Sir Mark would be accountable for maintaining order over the weekend.
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