The Metropolitan Police have denied accusations of targeting Christian preachers.
Earlier this week, a video surfaced featuring a Metropolitan Police officer threatening to arrest a street preacher in Uxbridge following an accusation of a hate crime by someone in the area.
The video gained widespread attention, amassing thousands of views. This incident occurred just weeks after a similar case involving a gospel singer who was allegedly threatened with arrest for singing.
Now, the London police force has used X to address the media coverage of the video. They specifically referenced a Daily Mail article, expressing their intention to ensure that the coverage remains “balanced and accurate”.
“Our officers do a really tough job, and they know their actions will be scrutinised by the media. All they ask is that the coverage is balanced and accurate.
"It's disappointing that some of the reporting we have seen on this incident has not met this test. The Mail, for example, called it a “Christian crackdown” which is just not a fair way to describe officers responding to allegations of racist and homophobic remarks being shouted in the street."
It continued: “It's also important to remember that videos shared on social media rarely tell the full story, especially when they've been cut or edited to make a particular point.
“In this case, officers from our Professional Standards Directorate have looked at all the body worn video footage available - more than 50 minutes of it.
“No misconduct was found. In fact, the officers involved were commended for their ‘professional behaviour, their patience and their knowledge of the legislation’ and for doing a good job in a potentially difficult situation.”
The online video depicts police officers asking for the worshipers' details in response to a complaint. They emphasise that they are carrying out their duties and not 'attacking' those expressing their religious beliefs. Eventually, the footage concludes on a positive note, with the preachers cordially packing up their belongings.