KILL THE BILL PROTEST
26 March, 2021
Violent clashes erupted in Bristol city centre as police moved in on peaceful demonstrators during a third night of Kill the Bill protests.
Thousands of protesters gathered on College Green, the scene of violence a few nights prior, and marched through the city before stopping at the end of Bridewell Street, the scene of violent clashes nearly a week prior outside of Bridewell Police Station.
Demonstrators were protesting against a new piece of government legislation that will give police more powers at protests such as noise and time limits whilst damaging a memorial could lead to up to ten years in prison.
The crowd remained peaceful, with many sitting next to police lines. At around 10:15pm police gave the order to disperse, if not, dogs and horses would be used. Just minutes later, police in full riot gear moved in and began beating demonstrators back; striking with batons and shields and continuing to hit demonstrators who were sat down and unable to move.
The crowd was pushed back with dogs, horses and pepper spray for almost two hours before most dispersed. Police came under fire from glass bottles and fireworks by a small minority, however most called for calm.
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