Activists hurl British desserts at the Crown Jewels in a protest against inequality. Police arrested four people after the stunt caused disruption at the Tower of London
The Tower of London became the site of an unusual protest on Saturday after activists hurled apple crumble and custard at the display case containing the nation’s Crown Jewels.
The Metropolitan Police said four people were arrested after officers were called to the Jewel House following reports of criminal damage to the reinforced glass case housing the Imperial State Crown. Two protesters were detained at the scene, while two others were arrested shortly afterward.
A little-known group calling itself “Take Back Power” claimed responsibility for the stunt, describing it as a symbolic act against inequality in the UK. Video posted on the group’s social media channels shows a young woman pressing a foil tray of crumble against the glass while another protester pours custard over it. Behind the smeared glass, the Imperial State Crown—worn by King Charles III during his 2023 coronation—remained untouched.
The protesters shouted slogans as visitors looked on in shock. “Democracy has crumbled!” the woman said, while her accomplice shouted, “Britain is broken. We’ve come here, to the jewels of the nation, to take back power.” Both wore T-shirts bearing the “Take Back Power” logo. A staff member is seen in the footage attempting to intervene and calling security for assistance.
In a statement released after the arrests, the group outlined its demands, including the creation of a permanent “citizens assembly,” which it calls the “House of People.” It argues the assembly should have the authority to tackle national challenges, with a focus on taxing extreme wealth to “fix Britain.”
A section of the Tower of London was temporarily closed while staff cleaned the display and security teams carried out checks. The Crown Jewels, protected by bomb-proof glass, were not damaged.
The incident adds to a growing number of activist actions targeting cultural landmarks and artworks across Europe in recent years. While many of those protests have centred on climate change, the targeting of the Crown Jewels—one of the most potent symbols of state power—marks a notable escalation in efforts to draw attention to social and economic inequality.
As of Saturday evening, all four suspects remained in custody as police continued their inquiries into the damage and disturbance at the historic fortress.
