Birmingham and Sandwell Kisaan Car Rally: More than 1,000 told to move on as huge delays caused and three fined
More than 1,000 people were told to leave during a huge protest rally in Birmingham and Sandwell.
But due to coronavirus regulations, both Birmingham and Sandwell are under 'Very High Alert' Tier 3 restrictions, meaning groups of more than six are not allowed to meet.
West Midlands Police said an organiser for the 'Birmingham and Sandwell Kisaan Car Rally' could not be found - and that a number of smoke flares were thrown from moving vehicles.
Officers say the rally not only caused delays for other road users, but for emergency vehicles also.
They added that 'a number' of drivers had been prosecuted for road traffic offences including careless driving and directions to leave had been issued to more than 1,000 people.
A further three people were issued with £100 fixed penalty notices after refusing to leave when asked to do so by officers.
A statement from West Midlands Police yesterday said: "Large demonstrations regarding agricultural reforms in India took place in Birmingham and Sandwell earlier today causing traffic disruption in Birmingham, West Bromwich, the Jewellery Quarter and surrounding roads.
Unfortunate
"While we were aware that the rally was due to happen and had a dynamic policing plan in place, there was no identified organiser and the lack of established route led to additional disruption and delays for other road users – including emergency vehicles.
"Deliberately not following the regulations and measures put in place to limit the spread of the virus is unacceptable and our officers will continue to take the appropriate action where necessary."
Superintendent Sarah Burton who led the police response to the rally yesterday said: “While we absolutely respect and support the right to demonstrate, there are requirements that need to be met by law. An organiser needs to be identified and the police should be notified in advance.
"It’s very unfortunate that didn’t happen today, and we will be taking steps to identify the people responsible.
“Unfortunately some smoke flares were thrown from moving vehicles, putting other road users in danger and as part of the post incident review CCTV, drone, body worn video, and camera footage will be reviewed to identify any offences, and those involved will be prosecuted retrospectively.”
West Midlands Police added that 'the current situation means that these type of gatherings pose a risk to public health'.
"Personal choices matter and we simply ask people to act responsibly, and to work with us wherever possible, in order to protect others from harm," added the statement.
