The Church of Scientology in the UK has become the target of a new TikTok trend known as “speed running,” where teenagers rush into buildings to see how far they can get before being escorted out. The trend, which originated in Los Angeles, has now spread to London and Edinburgh, prompting police responses.
London Speed Run
On Saturday, approximately 100 teenagers gathered near the main Scientology centre near Blackfriars in central London. The event was organized via a Snapchat post that read: “First UK raid of Scientology. Happening this Saturday 2nd May. Bring face coverings and GoPros. Spread the word.” The post quickly went viral on TikTok.
Rizak Abdullahi, 19, who witnessed the scene, described the crowd as “dressed as dinosaurs, some had cat masks, it was quite funny.” He noted that two City of London police vans were already waiting to intercept the group. “You know the UK police, they know everything,” Abdullahi said.
City of London police confirmed that officers spoke with the crowd, which dispersed after a short time. No arrests were made.
Participants Travel from Afar
Levi Telford, 16, traveled from Carlisle—a four-hour journey—to take part. He said the trend itself was a sufficient motivation, aside from the “mysterious” nature of Scientology. “I think people want to do it here just to be part of the trend, to be part of something,” he explained.
Origin of the Trend
The speed run trend began in late March when a TikToker known as Swhileyy posted a video of himself running through the lobby of the Church of Scientology’s LA headquarters. The video gained 90 million views before being deleted. Similar stunts have since occurred in Vancouver and New York.
Some participants aim to map the interiors of the buildings, while others engage in surreal antics. One person ran in dressed as Jesus, and a group dressed as Minions attempted entry, claiming they were looking for Tom Cruise.
UK Copycats
This weekend, copycat attempts emerged in the UK. A group of about 30 teenagers tried to speed run a Scientology building in Edinburgh but were stopped by police. After being drenched by rain, the group took shelter in a Greggs bakery before heading home.
Concerns from Protesters
Alexander Barnes Ross, a long-time protester against Scientology in the UK, expressed concern about the speed runs. Having spent the past year fighting for the right to protest outside Scientology buildings, he warned that this trend “risks giving the church an opportunity to reopen the case.” While he supports exposing what he calls the church’s “harmful practices,” he stated, “There is nothing funny about Scientology. This is a dangerous, harmful organisation.” He emphasized that attempts to break in with force undermine his peaceful efforts.
However, participants insist the speed runs are meant to be fun and driven by curiosity. “It’s so secret that people just love to find out what’s happening and explore,” said a TikToker named Hiddenurbex, who attended the London speed run with friends.
Church Response
The Church of Scientology condemned the actions, stating that individuals have repeatedly forced their way into church locations, damaging property and endangering staff. The church said it is reviewing “all available remedies” to protect personnel, visitors, and property.
“The church welcomes lawful visitors. It does not welcome mobs forcing entry, damaging property, disrupting religious spaces or endangering people for views,” the church said in a statement.
