Four people have been arrested and five sound systems seized as part of a police operation during the annual 420 cannabis protest held in London’s Hyde Park on Easter Sunday.
The event, part of a global movement calling for the legalisation of cannabis, drew dozens of campaigners and cannabis users to one of the capital’s most iconic green spaces. The rally, informally known as “420 Day”, traditionally takes place on the 20th of April and has long been associated with calls for reform of the UK’s drug laws.
This year’s protest once again went ahead without official permission from The Royal Parks, which manages Hyde Park. The organisation had previously warned that any unauthorised gathering could lead to arrests and enforcement action due to breaches of park regulations.
Throughout the day, a large police presence was visible in and around the park, with several Met Police vans stationed nearby and officers patrolling on foot among the crowds. Though the gathering appeared peaceful, the Metropolitan Police confirmed that a number of enforcement measures were carried out during the event.
In a statement released Sunday evening, the Met said officers had arrested four individuals for a range of offences, including possession of an imitation firearm, a bladed weapon, Class A and Class B drugs, as well as assault on a police officer and failure to appear in court.
In addition to the arrests, the Met also confirmed the seizure of five sound systems, the issuing of 45 community resolutions, 27 dispersal notices, and six penalty notices. A dispersal order was in place for the area and is due to remain in effect until midnight on Sunday, allowing officers to direct individuals to leave the area if they suspect their presence may lead to crime, anti-social behaviour, or disorder.
A spokesperson for the Met Police reiterated the force’s position on illegal drug use, saying:
“The Met is aware of the 420 Day rally, also known as the cannabis day event, in Hyde Park and had a policing plan in place for the day.
“Using cannabis and other recreational drugs is illegal. Officers will intervene and use enforcement options where proportionate and necessary.
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“Our main priority is to ensure park users are safe, and achieving that requires officers to make pragmatic decisions, potentially prioritising those offences that pose the most immediate risk.”
They added that police enforcement on the day would involve a variety of responses under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, including community resolution orders, penalty notices for disorder, and arrest – particularly in cases where there is associated anti-social behaviour or other criminality.
The Royal Parks, in a separate statement, clarified that they did not authorise the protest and warned of potential consequences for those taking part.
“This is an unauthorised event and breaches regulations. Those gathering for the purpose of protest may be liable for arrest.”
Despite the formal warnings, campaigners gathered in groups across the park, with many seen socialising, playing music, and openly using cannabis. Clouds of smoke could be seen rising above the crowd at various points during the afternoon – a common sight during previous 420 Day events at Hyde Park.
The 420 rally in London is considered one of the largest in the UK, drawing attention each year to the ongoing debate around cannabis legislation. While some attendees called for a more health-based and regulated approach to drug use, authorities remain firm in their message that cannabis possession and use remains illegal under UK law.
Police officers are expected to remain in the area into the evening to ensure public safety and enforce the dispersal order, with members of the public encouraged to report any concerns.
Anyone witnessing criminal or anti-social behaviour has been advised to contact officers on patrol or call 999 in an emergency.
