Police Investigating Accosting Of England's Chief Medical Officer

2 men approached Mr. Whitty in a park

The British Prime Minister says footage of England's Chief Medical Officer accosted in a park is the behaviour of "thugs".

I’m shocked at seeing the despicable harassment of Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty.

I condemn the behaviour of these thugs. Our hard-working public servants should not have to face this kind of intimidation on our streets and we will not tolerate it.

— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) June 29, 2021

The video posted online shows two men with Professor Chris Whitty, seen looking uncomfortable, while retreating from the mens' grasp.

Footage has emerged of Professor Chris Whitty being manhandled by two men in the street.

Get more on this story: https://t.co/52fhwoexOm pic.twitter.com/7Ve3Dc5KCJ

— Sky News (@SkyNews) June 29, 2021

The UK's Health Secretary called the mens' actions "totally unacceptable".

Sajid Javid says such behaviour will not be tolerated, adding those responsible "should be ashamed".

I’ve seen the video of the CMO being harassed. It’s appalling and totally unacceptable. The CMO works tirelessly on behalf of the country. We will not tolerate this sort of behaviour towards our public servants. The men behaving in this disgraceful way should be ashamed.

— Sajid Javid (@sajidjavid) June 29, 2021

British Police say they have been in contact with the men.

We are aware of a video being shared online showing an incident in St James’s Park.

Officers spoke to all those involved at the time and their details were taken. We are in contact with the victim and the circumstances continue to be investigated.

— Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) June 28, 2021