the security challenge around the coronation of Charles III

A man arrested and handcuffed outside the main entrance of Buckingham Palace, London (United Kingdom). He was carrying a knife and had just thrown rifle cartridges into the courtyard of the palace. The forecourt was immediately evacuated and the deminers blew up suspicious packages a few meters from the TV sets. The incident recalls the security issue three days before the coronation of Charles III, on May 6. In all, 2,200 guests, including dozens of heads of state will travel to the British capital on Saturday, as well as hundreds of thousands of spectators are expected along the route.

29,000 police officers mobilized

The places of the ceremonies are already completely cordoned off, protected by the police, heavily armed and monitored by an important network of cameras, deployed for the occasion. “The level of tolerance for all disruptors will be extremely low. They will be brought under control quickly if they intend to cause harm”, says Ade Adelekan, police commander. The authorities fear in particular the demonstrations of anti-monarchist activists during the ceremony. A law was passed hastily, expanding the powers of the police to deal with any troublemakers. In all, 29,000 police officers will be mobilized throughout the weekend.