Manchester city centre protests pass without significant disorder, police say
Two men were arrested but later released without charge
Police say a protest and counter-protest in Manchester city centre passed without significant disorder on Saturday 31st October.
Greater Manchester Police said an estimated 400 protesters and counter-protesters gathered around the Albert Square area.
The force said smaller numbers arrived than expected.
Significant police resources were in place throughout the day to safely facilitate both demonstrations.
Officers worked with organisers to help people protest safely and to keep wider disruption to a minimum, according to the force.
Police said the vast majority of both sides caused no issues for officers.
Two arrests
Two men were arrested but later released without charge, police said.
One male protester was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon.
One male counter-protester was arrested on suspicion of robbery over a matter unrelated to the day's events.
Section 60 powers
Increased stop and search powers under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 were put in place in the city centre at around 12.45pm.
Police said the powers have since been lifted.
Police response
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Dexter said:
"Our policing operation was designed to balance the right to peaceful protest with the need to keep the city centre safe and moving for everyone else."
"We also have had to ensure our plans were flexible and resilient so that any 'flash protests' in other areas of the city could be dealt with quickly, to minimise disruption and risks to safety in our communities. This plan continues into the remainder of the evening."
"As a result of extensive preparation and the work of officers and partner agencies throughout the day, both groups of demonstrators were able to exercise their rights safely, and we saw no significant disorder."
"I would like to thank our officers, partners and the public for their support and cooperation, which helped minimise disruption and allowed people to enjoy all that Manchester city centre has to offer."