The Metropolitan Police is appealing for the public’s assistance in identifying two individuals after a police medic was assaulted during a violent protest.
On Saturday supporters of Stephen Yaxley-Lennon staged a protest dubbed ‘Free Tommy Robinson’ in central London.
An associated counter-protest by groups including ‘Stop Tommy Robinson’ and ‘Stand up to Racism’ was also held in the same location.
At around 1.30pm a group of demonstrators attempted to storm their way past a police cordon; during this furore, a police medic was pulled to the ground and kicked in the head by a man.
Superintendent Roy Smith, who policed the protest, urged members of the public to ‘do the right thing and come forward’.
“Attacks on police officers, as with an attack on any emergency service worker, are attacks on the basic fabric of a civilised society,” he said.
“We have a dedicated team in place to investigate incidents like this at public order events, and rest assured we will not stop until those responsible are identified and brought to justice.
“I would urge anyone who has information relating to this sickening and cowardly attack to come forward, which you can do in complete confidence”.
A video of this assault has been widely circulated on social media. The incident was also captured on the officer’s Body Worn Video (BWV), Scotland Yard has confirmed.