Roads closed and widespread disruption as protester climbs crane near US Embassy
A MAN has mounted a crane on a building site in an alleged protest this morning, closing roads and causing widespread disruption in London.
The man is believed to have scaled the crane on a building site in Battersea, southwest London, as early as 4am this morning. Witnesses say he has a large Palestine flag and has been protesting with it in the hours since.
Police are attempting to speak to him but he's not yet engaged with the officers, the Met said.
The site is opposite the US Embassy on Nine Elms Road.
The incident has led to several road closures and long delays through Wandsworth and Battersea, southwest London.
Road closures in Battersea / Nine Elms due to a protestor who has scaled a crane in the new development. Definitely not scared of heights this one. pic.twitter.com/LUbV282I5P
— Dylan Buckley (@dylankbuckley) June 15, 2021
One witness said: "There’s a Palestinian protestor up on a crane in Battersea. Lots of roads blocked off. Said he will be there for a few days apparently."
A spokesman for Met Police said: "Our priority is the man's safety and officers are attempting to speak to him. As yet, he has not engaged with any of the officers on the ground.
"Officers attended and remain at the scene. London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service have been made aware of the ongoing incident."
More to follow.