Thousands protest in London over deaths in police custody
- Text by Ben Smoke
- Photography by Aiyush Pachnanda
This weekend thousands gathered in Central London to march in solidarity with grieving families whose loved ones have died in police custody or following contact with the police.
The annual march, which started in Trafalgar Square, was organised by the United Families & Friends Campaign (UFFC). The group was established in 1997 as a network of Black families, but more recently expanded to include families, of those who have died at the hands of the police.
Relatives of those who have died delivered a signed letter to Downing Street demanding an urgent meeting with prime minister Rishi Sunak. Among them were the relatives of Chris Kaba, who was shot dead by Metropolitan Police officers in September, were in attendance, with Kaba’s mother and cousin both delivering speeches to the crowds. An IOPC investigation into the killing is ongoing.
Also joining crowds were family members or Oladeji Omishore, who died this year following an incident where he was tased by police on Chelsea bridge. Marcia Rigg, an organiser at UFFC – whose brother Sean Rigg died in police custody at Brixton police station in 2008 – was also present. The families are calling for changes to the judicial process following deaths in police custody or following contact with the police.
After the letter was delivered crowds walked to Parliament street where they were addressed by family members. Thousands in attended chanted “police are the murderers” as well as holding signs and placards demanding justice. Photographer Aiyush Pachnanda was there to capture the march.
Follow Aiyush Pachnanda on Instagram.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
You might like
A stark, confronting window into the global cocaine trade
Sangre Blanca — Mads Nissen’s new book is a close-up look at various stages of the drug’s journey, from production to consumption, and the violence that follows wherever it goes.
Written by: Isaac Muk
“Like skating an amphitheatre”: 50 years of the South Bank skatepark, in photos
Skate 50 — A new exhibition celebrates half a century of British skateboarding’s spiritual centre. Noah Petersons traces the Undercroft’s history and enduring presence as one of the world’s most iconic spots.
Written by: Noah Petersons
Venice Biennale will not award artists from Israel & Russia due to war crime accusations
Art Not Genocide — Both countries will still be allowed to exhibit work at their respective pavilions, but be excluded from judging considerations, as they have leaders facing arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court.
Written by: Noah Petersons
In photos: Columbia Hike Society turned a laundrette into a gear hub
Dirtbags — It kicked off the initiative’s latest season, which will feature 30 guided treks across the UK in 2026, with cleaning and repair stations, and upgrades to well-worn tech.
Written by: Noah Petersons
Eating concrete with London Skate Mums
Parental steeze — Founded during the pandemic, the group has ballooned into a community, giving mothers of various ages and abilities space to pull tricks, fall and express themselves. Sydney Lobe meets them at the legendary Southbank Undercroft.
Written by: Sydney Lobe
Confronting America’s history of violence against student protest
Through A Mirror, Darkly — In May 1970, two separate massacres at American college campuses saw deaths at the hands of the state. Naeem Mohaiemen’s new three-channel film memorialises the brutality.
Written by: Miss Rosen
