A man has been arrested after violent scenes which saw windows smashed at the Indian High Commission in London.
Metropolitan Police officers were called to the building in Aldwych, Westminster, at 1.50pm on Sunday, where two security guards also suffered minor injuries.
Videos on social media showed a man removing the Indian flag from the Commission’s first-floor balcony with a crowd below waving bright yellow “Khalistan” banners appearing to encourage him.
The group is believed to be supporters of a Sikh separatist movement that wants to create a new breakaway state.
The Met has launched an investigation into the incident.
A spokesperson for the force said: “Windows were broken at the High Commission building.
“Two members of security staff sustained injuries. These are believed to be minor; they did not require hospital treatment.
“Officers attended the location. The majority of those present had dispersed prior to the arrival of police,” the spokesperson continued.
“An investigation was launched, and one male was arrested nearby a short time later on suspicion of violent disorder. Inquiries continue.”
The incident was criticised on Twitter by London mayor Sadiq Khan, Foreign Office minister Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon, and the British High Commissioner to India, Alex Ellis.
Mr Khan said: “I condemn the violent disorder and vandalism that took place at the Indian High Commission today.
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“There is no place in our city for this kind of behaviour.”
Lord Ahmad wrote: “Am appalled by today’s attack on the Indian High Commission in London.
“This is a completely unacceptable action against the integrity of the mission and its staff.
“The UK Government will always take the security of the Indian High Commission seriously.”
Mr Ellis said: “I condemn the disgraceful acts today against the people and premises of the @HCI_London – totally unacceptable.”
