Tower of London Closes After Custard Attack
Protesters Vandalise Crown Jewels Display With Apple Crumble at Tower of London; Four Arrested
A major security incident unfolded at the Tower of London this morning after protesters hurled apple crumble and custard over the glass case protecting the Imperial State Crown, one of Britain’s most iconic Crown Jewels.
Police were called at 9:48am on Saturday, 6 December, following reports of criminal damage inside the Jewel House. According to the Metropolitan Police, a group linked to the activist organisation Take Back Power entered the exhibition area and smeared dessert across the display case before two members fled.
Footage released by the group shows activists slamming a foil tray against the reinforced glass, sending custard and crumble splattering across the protective casing. The protesters revealed “Take Back Power” T-shirts as they shouted slogans including “Democracy has crumbled — tax the rich” and “Britain is broken.”
Stunned visitors looked on as a lone security guard attempted to intervene and radioed for assistance. The Tower of London was immediately closed to the public, and an investigation is now underway.
Police confirmed that four individuals have been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and remain in custody. Officers from the Metropolitan Police and City of London Police continue to work with Tower security staff to assess the impact of the incident.
The Imperial State Crown, adorned with historic jewels such as the Cullinan II diamond and St Edward’s Sapphire, symbolises British sovereignty and is used by the monarch during key ceremonial events, including the State Opening of Parliament.
Take Back Power later issued a statement claiming responsibility, saying its members had “smothered dessert over the Crown Jewels” as part of their protest.
