WATCH | Custard and apple crumble thrown on Crown Jewels case at Tower of London, four arrested

The civil resistance group Take Back Power posted footage of the incident online, saying two of its members smeared the dessert across the display case holding the Imperial State Crown.

‼️ CRUMBLE AND CUSTARD ON THE CROWN JEWELS

Democracy has crumbled. Billionaires buy political influence whilst homeless people die on the streets.

We need a House of the People to tax the rich.

Donate to help take back power: https://t.co/fMDX5SNEKg pic.twitter.com/Tl7Wyfakvd

— Take back POWER (@takeback_power) December 6, 2025

Footage released by the group shows one protester pulling a large foil tray of apple crumble from a bag and slamming it against the glass casing that protects the Imperial State Crown. Moments later, another activist is seen repeatedly pouring bright yellow custard over the front of the display.

The pair then opened their coats to reveal T-shirts printed with the slogan “Take Back Power”. One shouted, “Democracy has crumbled,” while another added, “Britain is broken. We’ve come here to the jewels of the nation to take back power.”

Two members also held up a sign reading “Democracy has crumbled – Tax the Rich” in front of the case.

What police said?

Police said officers responded shortly before 1000 GMT and detained four protesters on suspicion of criminal damage. “The Jewel House has been closed to the public while the police investigation continues,” the statement said.

Scotland Yard said: “Four protesters have been arrested following criminal damage at the Tower of London. Police were called at 09.48hrs on Saturday 6 December to the Tower of London following reports of criminal damage to a display case, containing the state crown.

“It was reported that four protesters threw suspected food on to the case before two left the scene. Officers worked closely with City of London police and security officers and four people have been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage. They have been taken into custody.”

Historic Royal Palaces, which manages the Tower, confirmed that the Crown Jewels were not damaged and that staff acted swiftly. The Jewel House reopened after officers completed on-site checks.

What is Tower of London

The Tower of London attracts more than three million visitors a year, with the Crown Jewels — including crowns, orbs and sceptres — among its main draws.

Take Back Power said its protest was aimed at highlighting its call for the government to tax the super rich.