New Delhi: Labour Party councillor Ricky Jones has been arrested following his controversial remarks at an anti-violence rally in Walthamstow. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest of the man in his 50s on suspicion of encouraging murder and violating the Public Order Act.Officers have arrested a man aged in his 50s at an address in south-east London. He was held on suspicion of encouraging murder and for an offence under the Public Order Act. He is in custody at a south London police station, stated the police on X.UPDATE: Officers have arrested a man aged in his 50s at an address in South East London.He was held on suspicion of encouraging murder and for an offence under the Public Order Act.He is in custody at a south London police station. https://t.co/YVuXRStZzd— Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) August 8, 2024Jones was addressing protesters rallying against racism and violence when he made the provocative statements. His remarks were captured on video and quickly spread on social media.Disgusting Nazi fascistsIn the viral video, Jones can be seen saying, They are disgusting Nazi fascists and we need to cut all their throats and get rid of them all. Behind him, supporters held placards that read, Smash fascism and racism by any means necessary.Dear @kent_policeThis is @UKLabour councillor Ricky Jones. Inciting mass murder.Will he be receiving 24 justice and a long prison sentence @ukhomeofficepic.twitter.com/mYzLnnJQaw pic.twitter.com/bCFVIhC6Cw— Laurence Fox (@LozzaFox) August 8, 2024Labour Party condemnsThe Labour Party swiftly condemned Joness behavior, describing it as unacceptable. A party spokesperson confirmed his suspension, stating, This behavior is completely unacceptable and it will not be tolerated. The councillor has been suspended from the party. This suspension prevents Jones from serving as a Labour councillor.Opposing far-right violenceThe rally in Walthamstow was part of a series of counter-protests across the UK in response to recent far-right violence. Over the past week, the UK has seen widespread unrest following the murder of three young girls in Southport. Misleading rumors suggesting the attacker was a Muslim immigrant incited the riots, resulting in 480 arrests.Police investigation underwayThe police are continuing their investigations into the recent violence and the circumstances surrounding Joness arrest. The incident has heightened tensions and underscored the challenges in addressing hate speech and maintaining public order.
