Nineteen activists have been arrested in connection with plans to disrupt the Epsom Derby Festival on Saturday. The Animal Rising group accused Surrey police of “abusing” their powers after the 19 were detained based on intelligence received by officers. Eleven people were arrested at addresses in Mitcham and Byfleet in the early hours, and a further eight people were arrested after their vehicle was stopped on Canons Lane. The Animal Rising group vowed to “cancel or severely delay” the race despite a high court injunction banning them from doing so. In a defiant announcement following the arrests, Animal Rising said police would not stop them from disrupting the Derby.

Source: The Guardian June 04, 2023 00:56 UTC