Violence following a pro-Palestinian demonstration in London left three police officers injured while 40 people were arrested.
The demonstration, organized by a coalition of activists including the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, started in Whitehall shortly before 6pm on Tuesday 28 May.
However, the Metropolitan Police said the turnout of between 8,000 and 10,000 people “significantly exceeded” expected levels, meaning officers asked protesters to leave before 8pm.
About a “few hundred” are said to have missed the deadline – meaning police said they had the power to arrest them.
The breakaway protest group was eventually moved to Bridge Street, outside Westminster Station.
Around 10 p.m., police began arresting the group.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: “A total of 40 people were arrested for offenses including breaching the terms of the Public Order Act, obstructing the highway and assaulting emergency workers.
“Others were dispersed from the area.”
“Their details have been collected and they have been informed that investigations are still ongoing in relation to Tuesday evening's events. Those who refused to provide their details were also arrested.
“Unfortunately, three officers were attacked.
“Two suffered minor injuries while a third, a PC based at the Central West Command Unit, suffered serious facial injuries when she was hit by a bottle thrown from the crowd.
“The suspect in the assault has not yet been identified, but an investigation is ongoing.”