Security guard knocked unconscious during City Hall demonstration

Police are seeking the public's help to identify a man in connection with an assault on a security guard during a black cab drivers' protest at City Hall on Wednesday morning, 16 September.

At around 9:00am a large group of demonstrators gathered outside City Hall as part of a spontaneous protest. Around 80 of the protestors were allowed into the public gallery during Mayor's Question Time and others were granted access to the 9th floor.

At approximately 10:50am a group of around 20 protestors forced their way in to City Hall. As they did so a security guard was pushed over and knocked unconscious. Once inside, the group attempted to enter the public gallery but they were prevented by security staff and police officers, some of whom were assaulted by the group.

The injured security guard was taken by ambulance to hospital where he was treated for concussion and released later that day.

The Met's Public Order Investigation Team is investigating. Detective Chief Inspector Andy Barnes said: "This went far beyond peaceful protest and is completely unacceptable. Our team are now working through CCTV and will be looking to identify a number of people wanted in relation to this violent incident. Today we have released one image of a suspect in relation to the most violent assault on the security guard. I expect more to follow soon."

The suspect is described as a white man, around 50-years-old, approximately 6 feet tall with a partly shaved head and a receding hairline. He was wearing black leather trousers and a black leather motorcycle jacket with a light brown stripe on the arms.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Met's Public Order Crime Unit on 020 8246 0068. If you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

September 18, 2015