Police given temporary dispersal powers ahead of protests

Temporary police powers have been put in place to enforce a dispersal zone and ban on face coverings ahead of a planned protest.

Avon and Somerset Police authorised the powers from 16:00 BST until 23:00 for a planned protest and counter-protest in Bristol city centre. Those who fail to comply with the restrictions could be arrested and prosecuted, the force said.

Officers will be on site to tell people about the restrictions, "to enable rights to freedom of expression and assembly" and for "safeguarding".

Ch Insp Keith Smith said: "People are free to express their views lawfully, but anyone who crosses the line into criminality should not mistake a lack of immediate arrest for a lack of action."

The face-covering provision means anyone wearing a face covering or any other item to conceal their identity may be committing an offence.

The dispersal zone grants police the power to move on groups or individuals that cause, or are likely to cause, harassment, alarm or distress to others.

Officers said they would make people aware of the restrictions and would give them opportunity to comply or leave the area.

Smith said the existing and new temporary powers would help police "keep people safe, prevent disorder and respond to any criminality".

"Where criminal behaviour is identified, we will take action.

"While some offences may result in arrests at the time, there will be occasions when it is more appropriate, proportionate and operationally safe to make arrests at a later stage.

"We will arrest people at the right time and in the right place, ensuring we secure the strongest possible evidence and minimise any risk to the public, officers and those involved in the protest," he added.

Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.