United Kingdom: Thousands protest in London June 16 over Grenfell fire

Event

British media have reported that thousands of protestors have gathered in London’s West End on the evening of Friday, June 16, to call for justice for those affected by the recent fire at the Grenfell Tower housing complex. The group was last reported to be peacefully gathered outside the BBC Broadcasting House but has reportedly moved on. It is unclear if the protest is disbanding or moving to a new location as the situation is ongoing as of 21:00 (local time). Significant transportation disruptions in the area are likely in the coming hours and additional protests in London are possible in the coming days.

Context

A large fire engulfed the Grenfell Tower housing complex on Latimer Road, in west London’s North Kensington neighborhood, beginning at approximately 01:10 (local time) on Wednesday, June 14. As of June 16, more than 70 people remain missing and 30 have been confirmed dead, a figure which is expected to rise. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but allegations of insufficient safety standards in the building’s construction have led to widespread public anger.

Advice

Individuals in London are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate transportation disruptions in the vicinity of all demonstrations, and to adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.