How did police justify detaining Republic members and seizing placards?

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Police Express Regret Over Detainment of Republic Members Prior to Coronation

Metropolitan Police have expressed regret that six members of the anti-monarchy group Republic, including leader Graham Smith, were detained and unable to participate in planned protests during King Charles III's coronation. The group's leader stated that while police officers offered an apology, it was not accepted. The Metropolitan Police made a total of 64 arrests on the day of the coronation.
Justification for Arrests and Seizure of Placards

The six Republic members were arrested early on Saturday on suspicion of being "equipped for locking on," a reference to newly outlawed devices used by demonstrators to attach themselves to objects or each other. The Metropolitan Police also seized hundreds of placards belonging to the group. These individuals were detained for over 16 hours before their release late on Saturday.
Investigation Findings and Lack of Further Action

Following the arrests, the Metropolitan Police conducted an investigation into the items seized. The investigation concluded that there was insufficient evidence to prove intent to use the items for "locking on" and disrupting the coronation event. Consequently, the police stated that no further action would be taken against the six individuals.
Acknowledgment of Missed Protest Opportunity

In a statement, the Metropolitan Police acknowledged that the detained individuals were prevented from joining other protesters in Trafalgar Square and along the procession route. This expression of regret highlights the police force's acknowledgment of the demonstrators' inability to exercise their planned protest activities. Republic advocates for the replacement of the constitutional monarchy with an elected head of state.

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How did police justify detaining Republic members and seizing placards?

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