Police rush to 'big confrontation' in London as 50 'protesters' clash

Additional officers were deployed to the location to assist with the demonstration after Scotland Yard issued a Section 35 dispersal order.

Addressing the impact of the order, the Metropolitan Police said: "Police officers will have the power to exclude a person from the area for a period of up to 48 hours with an inspector's authority."

In its overall update, Scotland Yard added: "Officers are on scene in Camberwell Road, SE5 where there is a protest with approximately 50 people gathered outside a private venue.

"Additional officers are on their way to the location to assist with the demonstration."

The Lighthouse theatre hosts large and small events, holding weddings, themed parties and conferences.

It has been claimed that the Eritrean embassy was in the middle of a meeting when the protesters showed up at the scene.

A number of local residents took to social media to air concern about the incident.

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"Big confrontation with police outside the Lighthouse on Camberwell Road," one said.

"Protestors have brought sticks and weapons."

Another social media user wrote: "Rare to see this many riot cops on a Saturday at neither football nor a demo.

"Loads more vans arriving too, something’s going on down Camberwell."

Footage from the scene showed at least seven police vehicles on Camberwell Road.

Dozens of supposed protesters can be seen, with many clutching sticks and other potentially dangerous objects.

A separate image showed a number of police officers with riot gear.

A third video showed police standing in a line holding batons.

Officers have reportedly been kettling the supposed protesters.