Four police officers were injured after disorder involving protesters in Camberwell on Saturday.
Footage appeared to show protesters surrounding police vans while carrying sticks during a protest on Camberwell Road on Saturday afternoon.
Some appear to hit the vans with objects in their hands.
A Met Police spokesperson said the disturbance was related to “tensions amongst the Eritrean community” but did not give further details.
Officers estimated around 60 protesters were present at the demonstration.
Eight people were arrested, all of whom were in a group outside a venue which had been hosting a private event understood to have been taking place near the Lighthouse Theatre.
Four officers were injured, one of whom was taken to hospital. The officer was later discharged.
I just wanted to go to the corner shop man, what is this pic.twitter.com/WkxDRi1Naa
— Liam Heath (@liamfheath) December 30, 2023
A spokesperson said: “We are aware of footage being shared online. This will be investigated, alongside other evidence, to identify anyone else who may have committed criminal offences."
Public order police authorised a Section 35 dispersal order in the area in response to the scenes.
The power, lasting for 48 hours, gives officers the power to exclude a person from the area. The power can only be used if senior officers suspect the person’s presence is causing, or is likely to cause, crime and disorder.
One witness to the protest said on social media: “Big confrontation with police outside the Lighthouse on Camberwell Road.
"Protestors have brought sticks and weapons."
Another wrote on social media: “Rare to see this many riot cops on a Saturday at neither football nor a demo.
"Loads more vans arriving too, something’s going on down Camberwell."
Police later confirmed that arrests had been made, saying in a statement: "Camberwell Road has now reopened after a demonstration outside a private venue."
