Thirteen people have been arrested at a protest in Norwich city centre after allegedly displaying items supporting the proscribed terrorist group Palestine Action, Norfolk Police confirmed.
A group gathered outside City Hall in St Peters Street, holding placards and flags during the demonstration on Sunday. Officers intervened after identifying signs linked to the outlawed organisation.
A police spokesperson said:
“These people were all arrested on suspicion of displaying an item in support of a proscribed organisation, contrary to Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000.”
Five of those arrested were taken to Wymondham Police Investigation Centre for questioning and remain in custody. The other eight were spoken to by officers, provided their details, and were subsequently de-arrested. A fourteenth protester also had their sign seized and details recorded.
Police statement
Superintendent Wes Hornigold of Norfolk Police said:
“We will always work to facilitate peaceful protest and protect the democratic right to assembly, however the actions of this group were unlawful. Our officers’ role is to prevent disorder, damage and disruption in the local community and they will use their powers to do this. Any breaches of the law will be dealt with.”
Wider crackdown on Palestine Action supporters
The arrests in Norwich come just one day after the Metropolitan Police confirmed that a further 60 people will be prosecuted for alleged support of Palestine Action, which was proscribed in July.
Since the ban, more than 700 people have been arrested across the UK, including over 500 in central London during a protest earlier this month.
Last week, the Met confirmed the first three charges in England and Wales under the Terrorism Act relating to Palestine Action, following a Parliament Square protest on July 5.
Palestine Action was outlawed after claiming responsibility for damage to RAF Brize Norton aircraft and being linked to serious assaults on staff and police officers at a business premises in Gloucestershire.
CPS warning
Stephen Parkinson, Director of Public Prosecutions, warned that convictions under the Terrorism Act could have serious long-term consequences.
“A terrorism conviction can severely impact your life and career – it can restrict your ability to travel overseas and work in certain professions. People should be clear about the real-life consequences for anyone choosing to support Palestine Action.”
Investigations into those arrested in Norwich are ongoing.
