Extra police powers in Exeter during protests tomorrow
Officers have been given extra powers to ask people to remove face coverings used to conceal someone's identity
There will be an increased police presence in Exeter tomorrow (January 17) ahead of two protest marches.
Devon and Cornwall Police say a section 60AA order will be in place, which will give officers additional powers to require the removal of face coverings or any other item which is being used for the purpose of concealing someone’s identity.
The order runs from 10am to 6pm and will apply to the area already designated under the Public Spaces Protection Order which encompasses the city centre.
The force said the powers may be used by officers involved in the marches to help o facilitate a peaceful protest whilst preventing crime and disorder and balancing the rights of others.
Police say to prevent serious disruption, they have utilised powers under Sections 12 and 14 of the Public Order Act, between 11am and 3pm.
These set out legal conditions on organisers and participants around the routes, the length of time of any protest can take place, and the areas where respective groups must convene.
Both protest groups are expected to convene from 11am onwards.
Police say neither an assembly nor a procession will be allowed on the road surface of Exeter High Street between the corner of Eastgate/High Street and the corner of Catherine Square/High Street.
The force added that this restriction will also apply to the pavement on the south side of the High Street between the corner of Eastgate/High Street and the corner of Catherine Square/High Street, save the crossing of it by a procession leaving and returning into Bedford Street.