Four people have been arrested and five sound systems seized during an annual cannabis protest in Hyde Park, the Met Police has said.
Dozens of protesters gathered for the annual ‘420 Day’ rally on Easter Sunday, which is part of an international movement to protest against cannabis being illegal.
A number of police vans were seen parked inside the famous park as groups of protesters gathered on the grass while officers were spotted patrolling nearby.
The Met Police said there was a police presence throughout the 420 rally, explaining that officers intervened and used enforcement options where necessary.
The force said four people were arrested for offences including possession of an imitation firearm, possession of a bladed weapon, possession of Class A and Class B drugs, failure to appear in court and assault against a police officer.
The Met added that officers issued 45 community resolutions, seized five sound systems, issued 27 dispersal notices and six penalty notices.
Officers are expected to remain in the area, and a dispersal order is in place until midnight on Sunday.
The Royal Parks, which takes care of Hyde Park, had previously warned that people who gathered for the protest may be liable for arrest.
The Royal Parks explained that the event took place without its permission and said the demonstration breached its regulations.
Meanwhile, a Met Police spokesperson previously told the Standard there would be a “strong and visible police presence across Hyde Park” when the rally took place.
A Met spokesperson said: “The Met is aware of the 420 Day rally, also known as the cannabis day event, in Hyde Park on Sunday, 20 April and have a policing plan for the day.
“Using cannabis and other recreational drugs is illegal. Officers will intervene and use enforcement options where proportionate and necessary.
“Our main priority is to ensure park users are safe and achieving that requires officers to make pragmatic decisions, potentially prioritising those offences that pose the most immediate risk.
“Officers will enforce legislation under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 through community resolution orders, penalty notice for disorder, postal charge requisitions and arrest, particularly if there is associated anti-social behaviour, disorder or crime.
“There will be a strong and visible police presence across Hyde Park. We encourage park users to speak to officers if they have concerns. Always call 999 in an emergency.”
There are pro-drug rallies worldwide on April 20, but Hyde Park is known as the largest in the country, with this year’s event taking place on Easter Sunday.
Loud clouds of smoke have previously been seen wafting above crowds of protesters at Hyde Park during the annual protest due to so many people smoking at once.
