Five Arrested In Liverpool After Being Removed From Former Bank

Five people have been arrested in Liverpool city centre this morning after being removed from a former Bank of England building on Castle Street.

Merseyside Police entered the building at about 05:25 on Tuesday morning due to an "unlawful breach of the interim Warrant of Possession".

Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service and North West Ambulance Service were also in attendance as a further precautionary measure. 

Four men – aged 20, 20, 22, 50 – and a 19-year-old woman were arrested for trespassing during the currency of a possession order. The woman was also arrested for criminal damage and an offence under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.

Chief Superintendent Jon Ward QPM, said: "Merseyside Police is clear that while we will facilitate peaceful protest we will not tolerate disorder, criminal or anti-social behaviour during any demonstration.

"Since this group forced entry to the building numerous calls have been received by the police from members of the public regarding the anti-social behaviour of some of the trespassers, and some of their associated supporters in the street. This has included littering, urinating from the upper floors of the building into the street below and noise and swearing.

"This group was issued with an interim Warrant of Possession from a court which they chose not to adhere to and they were also advised by Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service that people utilising and residing inside the property were at risk. Despite knowing the risks the group made a decision to remain inside the property."

It is understood that since the warrant police could have legally entered the property and arrested those inside. However, Mr Ward said that officers have spent twenty five days negotiating with the group, asking them to leave voluntarily, which they refused to do.

"A decision was made to enter the premises to arrest those inside for various offences this morning. This action was appropriate and proportionate given the risks involved," Mr Ward added.

"Police officers and crime scene investigators are now undertaking examinations to gather evidence in relation to the criminal damage caused during the occupation of this Grade 1 listed building and to see if any other offences have been committed. Positive action will be taken against those found to have committed any offences.

(MH/CD)