Police dismiss fears of violence at Mark Duggan memorial march

Police have dismissed rumours of more violence following clashes in Hyde Park, Stamford Hill and Burgess Park
Nigel Howard
Fiona Simpson26 July 2016
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Police have dismissed fears that violence could marr a march to commemorate the death of Mark Duggan who was shot by police five years ago.

Despite reports that officers would be on alert over possible gang clashes at the event on August 6 – five years on from the fatal shooting – Haringey’s Borough Commander has blamed concern over the anniversary on “rumours”.

Chief Superintendent Helen Millichap said the Met is “not expecting problems” over the coming weeks “particularly on August 6”.

She added: “We are in contact with the organisers to facilitate a peaceful commemoration, and neither the organisers or us are expecting disorder.

“We are focused on the safety of the local community and those involved in the event.”

Mr Duggan, 29 was a passenger in a minicab travelling along Ferry Lane, Tottenham, when the vehicle was stopped by police.

His inquest heard he died “within 10 heartbeats” when he was shot by a Scotland Yard firearms officer known as V53.

Two days later, relatives of Duggan, accompanied by local residents, marched to Tottenham’s police station, demanding answers about the killing.

After a confrontation with riot officers, cars and buses were torched.

Looting then began as police stood back and over the next two days the disorder spread across the country, leading to five deaths and £200 million of damage.

Chief Supt Millichap also confirmed that officers would be present at the march to ensure it is “peaceful” and to “provide reassurance” to local communities.

Initial warnings came after a series of violent incidents rocked the capital last week.

Five police officers were injured as trouble flared at unlicensed gatherings in Hyde Park, Stamford Hill and Burgess Park.

Following the chaos, a police source told the Times that Met officers had been warned over possible violence at the Mark Duggan anniversary march.

The Met declined to comment on the claims at the time the report was published in the media.

A flyer being circulated by campaign groups Tottenham Rights and the Mark Duggan Justice Campaign says the day of “action, remembrance and community healing” will end with a protest outside Tottenham Police Station.

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