Footage circulating online shows a Christian pastor being arrested while street preaching in the British town of Watford on Saturday. 

Steve Maile, senior pastor of Oasis City Church, was detained by officers while sharing the gospel in Watford town centre, with a video showing him insisting no offence had been committed. Police at the scene appeared to allege an assault, which Maile denies.

Hertfordshire Constabulary said in a statement: "On Saturday 18 April, a man aged in his 60s was arrested on suspicion of assault and a Section 5 public order offence (racially or religiously aggravated disorderly behaviour).

"He has been released on bail while enquiries into the public order offence continue. No further action is being taken in relation to the assault."

The video of the arrest has gained significant attention on social media, with many questioning why Maile was being arrested. 

One TikTok user commented: "I'm a Muslim and I think this is very wrong. he should be allowed to preach and worship his religion freely."

Another said: "I'm not a religious man, but it’s just wrong what’s happening here."

In a video posted on Facebook afterwards, Maile thanked supporters for their prayers, claiming he had been “brutalised” and that the accusations against him are “totally false”. He added that he would continue preaching the gospel.

The incident comes after a police constable who told a crowd in east London in February that a Christian had the right to preach his faith on the streets was commended by the Met Police’s Assistant Commissioner.