News, Norfolk
EPA/Tolga AkmenMore than a dozen people have been arrested in Norwich city centre for showing support for Palestine Action, which has recently been proscribed by the government as a terrorist organisation.
Norfolk Police said 13 people “holding placards showing support” for the group were arrested outside City Hall during the protest, which started at 12:30 BST.
They were held on suspicion of displaying an item in support of a proscribed organisation, contrary to Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000.
Five people were taken to Wymondham police station for questioning while the other eight were de-arrested after they gave their details to police.
A 14th person had a sign seized by officers.
The force said the protest was over by 14:00 BST.
Supt Wes Hornigold 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.”
The arrests came a day after the Metropolitan Police said a further 60 people would be prosecuted for supporting Palestine Action.
The force said it followed the arrest of more than 700 people since the group was banned on July 5, including 522 in central London last Saturday.
More prosecutions are expected in the coming weeks, and arrangements have been put in place “that will enable us to investigate and prosecute significant numbers each week if necessary”, the Met said.
Palestine Action was banned by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper following criminal damage to planes at RAF Brize Norton.
As a result, membership of or support for the group is a criminal offence, punishable by up to 14 years in prison.
Cooper said the ban was based on “strong security advice following serious attacks the group has committed” as well as “plans and ideas for further attacks”.
But Amnesty International chief executive Sacha Deshmukh has described the mass arrests that have happened since then as “deeply concerning”.
Last month, the High Court ruled that Palestine Action would be able to challenge its proscription.
Lawyers for the group’s co-founder Huda Ammori argue that the ban breaches the right to free speech and acts as a gag on legitimate protest.
