Four Arrested After Food Attack on Britain's Crown Jewels Display at Tower of London

Food Thrown at Crown Jewels in Tower of London; Four Arrested for Criminal Damage

A shocking incident unfolded at London's historic Tower of London on Saturday, December 6, 2025, as four individuals were taken into custody after food was reportedly thrown at the display case housing Britain's priceless Crown Jewels. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrests, responding to reports of criminal damage at the globally renowned heritage site.

Details of the Daring Protest

The daring act involved two of the apprehended individuals allegedly pelting the protective glass enclosure of the Imperial State Crown with suspected food items. A little-known civil resistance group calling itself "Take Back Power" swiftly claimed responsibility, identifying the projectiles as apple crumble and custard. The Imperial State Crown, a key piece of the regalia, was worn by King Charles III at the conclusion of his 2023 coronation and is prominently featured during state occasions such as the State Opening of Parliament. Its radiant presence remained secure within the display.

Viral Video Captures Incident

A video, reportedly shared by "Take Back Power" on social media, depicted the incident in progress. It showed a young woman pressing a foil tray containing the crumble against the glass pane, while a young man then splattered custard from a tub onto it. Both alleged perpetrators were seen wearing T-shirts emblazoned with "take back power" and their group's logo. During the protest, the woman was heard exclaiming, "Democracy has crumbled!", with the man adding, "Britain is broken." He further articulated their motive: "We've come here, to the jewels of the nation, to take back power." Footage also captured a female staff member attempting to intervene with a walkie-talkie, repeatedly shouting "excuse me!" as she radioed for help.

Immediate Response and Investigation

Following the disturbance, the world-famous Jewel House at the Tower was immediately closed to the public while police initiated their investigation. Officers from the Metropolitan Police worked closely with the City of London Police and on-site security teams. The four individuals arrested are currently being held on suspicion of criminal damage.

Significance of the Crown Jewels

The Crown Jewels are not merely ornate objects; they represent an unparalleled repository of Britain's national identity and history. Comprising over 100 distinct objects and featuring more than 23,000 individual gemstones, this collection is managed by the Historic Royal Palaces charity, which oversees the Tower of London where the majority are exhibited. Their collective cultural, historical, and symbolic significance is considered immeasurable, held in trust by the monarch for the entire British nation.