A suspended Labour councillor, Ricky Jones, has been arrested on suspicion of encouraging murder after a video surfaced showing him urging violence against far-right protesters. The incident occurred during a counter-demonstration in Walthamstow, north-east London, on Wednesday evening.
Jones, a former councillor for Dartford, Kent, was filmed at the protest making a disturbing statement, saying: “They are disgusting Nazi fascists, and we need to cut all their throats and get rid of them all.” The video, which was posted on social media by Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, led to a police investigation.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Jones, in his 50s, was arrested in south-east London on suspicion of encouraging murder and for an offence under the Public Order Act. He is currently in police custody.
The protest, which involved thousands marching against racism and violence, included placards with slogans like “Smash fascism and racism by any means necessary.” Jones’ remarks have been widely condemned by the Labour Party, which suspended him immediately. A Labour spokesperson stated, “This behaviour is completely unacceptable and it will not be tolerated.”
The arrest of Jones comes amidst controversy involving another Labour figure, newly elected MP for Rochester and Strood, Lauren Edwards, who recently apologized for posting racist tweets between 2009 and 2011.
Jones will no longer serve on Dartford Borough Council, as his suspension from the party means he cannot sit on Labour benches during council meetings.
