Seven arrested at base demo accused of supporting banned group
Seven arrested at base demo accused of supporting banned group
During a peace demonstration at an RAF facility, seven individuals were detained on suspicion of backing the proscribed organization Palestine Action. The arrests occurred outside the main entrance of Lakenheath airbase on Sunday, according to Suffolk Police. The protest was linked to recent reports that a US fighter jet downed in Iran had been stationed at the base, sparking concerns over military actions.
The group of five men and two women was apprehended as part of a six-day campaign that included a continuous vigil at the airbase. The event is scheduled to conclude on Monday. Suffolk Police emphasized that the arrests were based on “suspicion of supporting a proscribed organisation,” with the detainees taken to Bury St Edmunds for further investigation.
“Suffolk Police has a duty to enforce the law without fear or favour and as it currently stands, not as it might be in the future. As such, where offences are believed to have occurred appropriate action will be taken,” said a spokesperson for the force.
Legal proceedings and appeal status
The High Court previously determined that the ban on Palestine Action was unlawful, yet it permitted the Home Office to challenge the ruling. This means the proscription remains active until the appeal’s resolution. The protest at Lakenheath was one of several actions organized by the Lakenheath Alliance For Peace, which stated that the arrests followed a speech by retired colonel Chris Romberg to the demonstrators.
Additional charges and ongoing actions
Suffolk Police also confirmed two individuals faced charges of deliberately blocking a road, stemming from a Saturday incident at the base. The group’s activities are part of broader efforts to oppose military operations, including the Iran conflict. The police urged the public to submit story ideas for Suffolk-related news.
Follow Suffolk updates via BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X for more developments.
