News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

Pastor-Olu-outside-London-City-Hall-main_article_image.jpg
Christian Concern
Politics

Sadiq Khan on arrested street preacher: I expect police to take this seriously

Sadiq Khan was asked about the treatment of Pastor Olu during Mayor's Question Time at the London Assembly on Thursday.

He said: "I expect the police to take this matter seriously and I can write to members once an update on this investigation has been received."

The mayor was questioned on the matter by London Assembly member and UKIP politician, David Kurten.

Mr Kurten, a Christian, said he was "troubled" to learn of the arrest of the preacher, whose full name is Oluwole Ilesanmi.

In a written submission, he said: "I am disappointed that any members of the Metropolitan Police would think it appropriate to behave in this manner.

"What is your view of the actions taken by the police on this particular occasion?"

Officers said the brief detention of Mr Ilesanmi outside Southgate Underground station on Saturday 23rd February was made to "prevent a breach of the peace".

The 64 year old has maintained that he did nothing wrong.

 

Footage of the incident, which has been seen more than 2.4 million times, appears to show Mr Ilesanmi being accused of "being racist" but it's unclear what he said while preaching which caused the police to intervene.

Earlier this month, the Met said its local professional standards unit was investigating what happened.

Sadiq Khan it would be "inappropriate" for him to comment on the specifics of the case, given a complaint is being investigated.

But he said: "It's always been clear that freedom of speech is critical and must be protected but also the police must be able to investigate when allegations are made of a criminal offence.

"Police officers have to strike a difficult balance on this issue on a regular basis and in complex circumstances, such as policing protests and public order incidents."

He added: "...our police officers are always expected to uphold the highest standards."

Stay up to date with the latest news stories from a Christian perspective. Sign up to our daily newsletter and receive more stories like this straight to your inbox every morning.

Tell us what you think about our news service, what you want and how Premier fits into your news landscape. Take our quick survey!

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate