Seven arrested at base demo accused of supporting banned group

Seven Detained at RAF Base Protest Over Alleged Ties to Banned Organization

Arrests Follow Peace Demonstration Against Iran Conflict

Suffolk Police confirmed the detention of seven individuals during a protest at an RAF base, linking them to the proscribed group Palestine Action. The arrests occurred on Sunday as part of a six-day peace camp, which included a continuous vigil at the base and was set to conclude on Monday.

The protest emerged after media outlets reported that a US fighter jet shot down in Iran on Friday had been stationed at Lakenheath airbase. Five men and two women were apprehended at the entrance of the base during the event.

A Suffolk Police representative stated that those detained were held on suspicion of backing a proscribed organization. The individuals were transported to the Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre for further inquiry.

Suffolk Police emphasized its responsibility to uphold the law impartially, regardless of future changes. Therefore, if any offenses are suspected, the appropriate measures will be implemented.

In February, the High Court declared the proscription of Palestine Action unlawful, yet permitted the Home Office to challenge the ruling, maintaining the ban until the appeal concludes.

According to a statement from the Lakenheath Alliance For Peace, the arrests took place following a speech by retired colonel Chris Romberg to the demonstrators. Suffolk Police further noted that two individuals faced charges of deliberately blocking the highway during a Saturday protest.

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