Two women arrested over plans to ‘disrupt coronation with rape alarms’

A total of three people - including two women - have been arrested over plans to ‘disrupt the coronation with rape alarms’.

Metropolitan Police said they have 'received intelligence yesterday (5 May) that indicated groups and individuals seeking to disrupt today’s Coronation proceedings'.

A 37-year-old woman, 59-year-old woman and 47-year-old man are reportedly part of the Night Star group, which is a programme under Westminster City Council, who help keep Londoners safe in the evenings.

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"At approx. 02:00hrs this morning, three people were stopped by officers and arrested in the Soho area on suspicion of conspiracy to commit public nuisance. Among items seized were a number of rape alarms." a police statement said.

"The three people – a 37-year-old woman, a 59-year-old woman and a 47-year-old man – were taken to a south London police station, where they were questioned. The 47-year-old man was also further arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.

"There was particular concern from military colleagues that this would scare their horses involved in the procession and, as a result, cause significant risk to the safety of the public and the riders.

"All three have since been released on bail pending further enquiries."

According to the council’s website, Night Star volunteers are 'focused on working with the West End’s evening and night-time economy businesses to promote women’s safety and reduce violence against women and girls'.

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“The team will provide wider support to anyone who becomes vulnerable due to intoxication to reduce the risk to their safety or prevent them from becoming victims of crime,” it adds.

“The Night Safety volunteers aim to make London’s nightlife safer for everyone.

“They provide a welcoming place for all and collaborate to ensure that Westminster’s nightlife remains a safe, inclusive and enjoyable experience for residents and visitors alike.”

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan said: "The intelligence we received led us to be extremely worried about the potential risk to public safety. We are aware of and understand there is public concern over these arrests. However, the matter is still under investigation."

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Councillor Aicha Less, cabinet member for communities and public protection at Westminster City Council, added: “We are deeply concerned by reports of our Night Stars volunteers being arrested overnight.

“This service has been a familiar and welcome sight in the West End for a long time and have extensive training so they can assist the most vulnerable on the streets late at night.

“We are working with the Metropolitan Police to establish exactly what happened, and in the meantime, we are in touch with our volunteers to ensure they are receiving the support they need.”

Tyla has contacted Night Stars and the Metropolitan Police for comment.