Seven arrested at base demo accused of supporting banned group

Seven Arrested at RAF Base Protest Over Alleged Support for Banned Group

Suspicions of supporting the proscribed organization Palestine Action led to the arrest of seven individuals during demonstrations at an RAF base. The arrests took place on Sunday near the entrance of Lakenheath airbase, as reported by Suffolk Police. The group was protesting against the ongoing Iran conflict, citing media claims that a US fighter jet shot down in the country had been stationed there.

Police Statement on Detentions

“The seven people detained are being held on suspicion of aiding the Palestine Action organization. They have been brought to the Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre for questioning,” said a Suffolk Police representative. “Our role is to uphold the law impartially, taking action when wrongdoing is believed to have occurred.”

The High Court had previously deemed the ban on Palestine Action as unlawful in February, yet it granted the Home Office permission to appeal, keeping the organization’s status as proscribed until the legal challenge concludes.

Peace Camp and Blockade Incidents

The Sunday protest was part of a six-day peace encampment, which featured a continuous overnight vigil at the base. This campaign is expected to end on Monday. According to the Lakenheath Alliance For Peace, the arrests occurred following a speech by retired colonel Chris Romberg to the assembled protesters. Suffolk Police also confirmed that two people were charged with obstructing the highway due to a Saturday blockade.

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