A British police officer is being applauded for confronting a group of tourists for "ridiculing" a silent King's Guard standing watch in London.
A TikTok video posted earlier this week showing what appears to be a cluster of American visitors heckling the guard is gaining traction, after a British police officer appears to intervene, demanding the group stop their harassing behavior.
"They [the guards] take their jobs seriously," the officer informs the tourists, according to the clip.
"They are not an objective ridicule," he continues. "I appreciate you having fun - he's not having fun, he's got a long day. He's got a lot of hours he's got to do. It is tiring, exhausting - you take the piss out of him. We do not appreciate that. I will ask you to leave the facility."
The group takes heed of the officer's request and leaves.
Viewers were quick to praise his composure in addressing the tense situation.
"Well said, police officer," one person commented.
"Officer handled this like a champ," another chimed.
"As an American, I am literally appalled by their behavior. My sincerest apologies for their lack of respect," someone wrote.
The heckling of the guard follows another recent incident where a tourist was scolded for touching the reins of a King's Guard's horse.
King's Guards are tasked with protecting the royal residence and patrolling the palace. They are considered soldiers.
