Story perspectives

Fifteen Activists Arrested for Alleged Shoplifting Plot

3/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Fifteen activists from Take Back Power were arrested on March 5, 2023, in Westminster, UK, for allegedly planning a mass shoplifting campaign.
Police intervened during a non-violent direct action training session at a Quaker Meeting House.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner James Harman stated the operation aimed to prevent organized theft.
Take Back Power condemned the arrests as a "draconian overreach" to protect corporate interests.
The group advocates for a citizens assembly with the power to tax the wealthy, and the investigation is ongoing.

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Story summary

Fifteen activists from Take Back Power were arrested on March 5, 2023, in Westminster, UK, for allegedly planning a mass shoplifting campaign.
Police intervened during a non-violent direct action training session at a Quaker Meeting House.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner James Harman stated the operation aimed to prevent organized theft.
Take Back Power condemned the arrests as a "draconian overreach" to protect corporate interests.
The group advocates for a citizens assembly with the power to tax the wealthy, and the investigation is ongoing.