I shoved Just Stop Oil yobs blocking traffic but then police assaulted me – it was completely heavy handed

A SCAFFOLDER collared for shoving aside Just Stop Oil activists blocking traffic claims police might as well have been making tea for the protesters.

Louis Grieves, 21, was an hour late for work because of the protesters so jumped out of his van to take matters into his own hands.

2

2

Video showed him pushing two eco-activists out of the road on Blackfriars Bridge as they brought central London traffic to a standstill during Tuesday’s slow march.

But instead of using new powers to move demonstrators on to the pavement, officers held Louis on suspicion of breach of the peace.

He said: “The officers were standing there having a leisurely chat and may as well have made the protesters a cup of tea while inviting them to block traffic.”

Louis said he tried to move the activists but police rushed over.

READ MORE ON JUST STOP OIL

FLOWER SHOWER

Just Stop Oil yobs drenched by hose during protest at Chelsea Flower Show

'DISGUSTING'

Moment 'hero' who tried to clear Just Stop Oil yobs blocking traffic detained

"He said: “They dragged me away claiming I was assaulting the protesters — all while the officers were assaulting me.

“It was completely heavy-handed.

“I was trying to bring peace, if anything, by getting them out of the way.

“People were at the end of their tether and I had to step in.”

Most read in The Sun

LAST ORDERS

Wetherspoons to stop selling major beer brand at all pubs in DAYS sparking fury

NUKE FEARS

Putin came so close to launching nuke that crisis meetings were held over impact

NEXT IN LINE

Favourites to replace Lineker on MOTD revealed as BBC plan HUGE show shake-up

'I'M INNOCENT'

I took 2 suitcases of 'cash' to UK but it was cocaine - now I'm facing jail

Self-employed Louis, of Bromley, South East London, was later told he faced no further action.

He said: “They didn’t even say sorry.

“I think they should apologise to the whole of London for not doing their jobs.

“I don’t see how we can trust the police to protect us when they can’t stop 20 angry sign-holding vegans from stopping traffic.”

Met assistant commissioner Matt Twist said: “We absolutely understand why those who are caught up in traffic delays will be frustrated.

“I would urge the public not to intervene or take matters into their own hands but to call the police, let us know where the incident is and we will get there quickly.”