Metropolitan Police Review Incident of Constable Restricting Gospel Singer's Performance

The constable's actions sparked backlash, with critics arguing they breached the singer's right to freedom of religion.

Harmonie London, a popular gospel singer, was told by a Metropolitan Police special constable that she was not allowed to sing religious songs outside of church grounds while she was performing on Oxford Street in London.
The volunteer officer, identified as Maya Hadzhipetkova, faced backlash after the incident was filmed and shared on social media, with critics arguing that her actions breached London's human right to freedom of religion.
Metropolitan Police officials are reviewing body-worn footage of the incident, which lasted over 40 minutes, and stated that a specific bylaw related to busking could be at the heart of the issue.
Public figures, including former minister and MEP Ann Widdecombe, have criticized Hadzhipetkova's actions and knowledge of the law, with some calling for her removal from the volunteer force.
Despite the criticism, the Metropolitan Police condemned some of the social media comments about Hadzhipetkova as 'personal and hurtful', describing them as 'unacceptable'.