Protesters Target Crown Jewels with Custard and Crumble in London

Four individuals were arrested on December 6, 2023, after they threw custard and apple crumble at a display case containing the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London. The protest, organized by a group calling itself Take Back Power, aimed to draw attention to their demands for a permanent citizens’ assembly in the United Kingdom.

Footage shared by the group depicted one protester removing a large foil tray of crumble from a bag and forcefully slamming it against the glass protecting the Imperial State Crown. Another protester followed suit by pouring a tub of bright yellow custard onto the front of the case. Following the act, demonstrators revealed T-shirts emblazoned with the phrase “Take Back Power” and shouted slogans such as “Democracy has crumbled” and “Britain is broken. We’ve come here to the jewels of the nation to take back power.”

The incident occurred around 09:48 local time, surprising tourists who were visiting the iconic landmark. A staff member quickly approached the scene, calling for assistance as the Jewel House was subsequently closed to the public while police conducted their investigation.

The Imperial State Crown, a well-known symbol of the British monarchy, plays a significant role during state openings of Parliament. Weighing over one kilogram, it is adorned with 2,868 diamonds, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, four rubies, and 269 pearls. The crown was last worn by King Charles III during his coronation in 2023 and was originally created for the coronation of his grandfather, George VI, in 1937.

Take Back Power previously made headlines by targeting the Ritz Hotel in London, where they emptied bags of manure beside its Christmas tree. The group claims their actions are intended to advocate for a “House of the People” that would be empowered to “tax extreme wealth and fix Britain.”

In response to the protest at the Tower of London, the Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrest of four individuals on suspicion of criminal damage. A spokesperson stated, “Police were called following reports of criminal damage to a display case containing the State Crown. Officers worked closely with City of London Police and security officers, and four people have been arrested.”

The incident has sparked discussions about the methods of protest and the ongoing demand for political reform in the United Kingdom. The juxtaposition of a historical symbol of monarchy with contemporary political activism highlights the tensions surrounding governance and representation in today’s society. As investigations continue, the actions of Take Back Power will likely provoke further debate on the effectiveness and appropriateness of civil disobedience in the pursuit of political change.