In a highly unusual act of protest that has captured global attention, four individuals have been detained by police after targeting the priceless Crown Jewels inside the Tower of London with apple crumble and custard.
A Bizarre and Calmly Executed Stunt
The incident unfolded just before 10am on Saturday, 7 December 2025, at the historic London landmark. According to reports and circulating footage, a woman walked calmly up to the reinforced glass case protecting the Imperial State Crown. She then produced a foil tray of apple crumble and threw its contents directly at the display.
Moments later, a male accomplice stepped forward and smeared yellow custard across the front of the case. The act left nearby tourists visibly stunned as it occurred. A staff member, seen urgently speaking into a walkie-talkie, attempted to intervene before calling for immediate backup.
Protesters' Message and Group Responsibility
During the incident, the female protester was heard shouting, "Democracy has crumbled!" while her counterpart declared, "Britain is broken! We've come here, to the jewels of the nation, to take back power." Following the act, the pair stood before the defaced display holding a banner that reinforced their slogan: "Democracy has crumbled – Tax The Rich."
Both individuals were wearing T-shirts identifying them as part of Take Back Power, a group describing itself as a nonviolent civil resistance movement. The organisation has publicly claimed responsibility for the stunt.
In an official statement, Take Back Power said they were "demanding that the UK government establish a permanent citizens’ assembly … with the power to tax extreme wealth and fix Britain." This was not their first provocative action that week; the group also targeted the luxurious Ritz Hotel on Wednesday, emptying bags of manure beside its Christmas tree.
Aftermath and Police Response
London's Metropolitan Police confirmed they attended the scene following reports of criminal damage and arrested four people. The Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels, was temporarily closed to the public to allow for a police investigation and cleanup. It has since reopened to visitors.
The Imperial State Crown targeted in the protest is an artefact of immense historical and monetary value. It was the same crown worn by King Charles III at his coronation in 2023 and is used for major state occasions.
While the glass case was soiled, there have been no reports suggesting the priceless jewels inside were physically damaged. The protest has, however, ignited widespread debate about the methods of activist groups and security at the nation's most treasured sites.
