Police's protest warning as hundreds of demonstrators flood into Manchester city centre
manchestereveningnews.co.ukPolice have issued a dispersal order as hundreds of protesters take to the streets of Manchester city centre. The move comes as a number of peaceful demonstrations are planned in the city today.
About 150 people have gathered in Piccadilly Gardens this morning for a protest entitled 'Stand Up For Your Country: Enough is Enough'.
A counter protest - 'Stop The Far Right' - is also being held, attended by an estimated 350 people. There has already been some tension between the two groups, with one man being detained by police officers. READ MORE: LIVE - Protests across Manchester city centre as cops issue warning and dispersal order enforced The disorder order, which has been put in place by Greater Manchester Police, will be in force across the entirety of the centre until 7pm this evening.
It gives officers extra powers to deal with anyone taking part in or causing anti-social behaviour. Chief Inspector Natasha Evans said: "These powers have been authorised to make sure we can continue to provide and facilitate the right to any peaceful protests that have been organised. "Our officers will be able to instruct and advise anyone who is causing, or very likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress to leave an area immediately. "People have a legal right to participate in peaceful protest, however where people are intent on breaking the law, we will take action. "Please keep an eye on our social media channels for any further updates around this Section 34 and if you are unsure about anything, do speak to officers on the ground.
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