Seven arrested at base demo accused of supporting banned group

Seven Arrested at RAF Base Protest Linked to Banned Group

Peace Demonstrators Targeted Over Iran War Allegations

Suffolk Police reported the detention of seven individuals on Sunday, alleging their involvement in supporting the proscribed organization Palestine Action during demonstrations at an RAF airbase. The group, which is banned in the UK, was accused of being connected to a recent incident involving a US fighter jet shot down in Iran, according to the protest organizers.

The arrests occurred as part of a six-day peace campaign, which included a non-stop vigil outside the Lakenheath airbase. The event is set to conclude on Monday. A spokesperson for the police emphasized that the detainees were held under suspicion of backing the group, with two of them charged with deliberately blocking a highway during a previous protest on Saturday.

“Those arrested have been taken to the Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre for further inquiry,” stated the official. “Suffolk Police is committed to enforcing the law impartially, and will act accordingly when evidence of wrongdoing is present.”

Legal Challenges to Palestine Action’s Status

Although the High Court declared the proscription of Palestine Action as unlawful in February, the Home Office was granted permission to challenge the ruling. This means the group remains officially banned while the appeal process continues.

Retired Colonel Sparks Protests

The arrests followed a speech by retired colonel Chris Romberg at the peace gathering, which intensified the demonstrations. The Lakenheath Alliance For Peace highlighted the event as a continuation of efforts to oppose military actions in the Iran conflict.

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