A woman protesting noisy overnight roadworks was arrested in east London after lying down in the street in front of construction machinery. The incident occurred at approximately 1:14 a.m. on Sunday, August 16, on Trafalgar Way in the Isle of Dogs.
The 52-year-old woman was found lying on the torn-up road surface, reportedly stating her demand was for the loud work to stop so residents could sleep. She was arrested on suspicion of breaching the peace.
Passerby Farid Qureshi, a journalist for ARY News, captured video of the scene. He described the situation as "weird" and noted that the woman was alone and appeared to be protesting the late-night construction noise. He added that the machinery was loud and the engines of the vehicles were audible.
Police officers arrived and attempted to reason with the woman, who remained in the road. Construction workers were also present, observing the scene. Amidst the situation, she sustained minor injuries, though the circumstances are unclear. She was subsequently taken to a local hospital as a precaution.
Upon arrival at the hospital, the woman was de-arrested. Authorities determined there were no grounds for her continued detention, and she was released without further action. Police stated they spoke with her and issued a warning.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed the details of the call and the subsequent arrest and de-arrest. Tower Hamlets Council and Heidelberg Materials have been contacted for comment regarding the roadworks. The Daily Mail reported that the woman was dressed in a cream-colored dress and was lying spread out on the road when Mr. Qureshi encountered her.