London: The Metropolitan Police have arrested more than 474 people during a protest in central London against the government’s decision to ban the activist group Palestine Action.
The demonstration took place in Parliament Square on August 9 and was organised by Defend Our Juries. Palestine Action was proscribed in July under the Terrorism Act 2000, after members carried out actions including breaking into RAF Brize Norton and causing damage to aircraft valued at $8.9 million (£7 million).
The government has said the ban followed strong security advice due to the group’s history of serious attacks and plans for further incidents. Protesters, many wearing Palestinian scarves and carrying Palestinian flags, held signs stating ‘I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action’ while chanting slogans in support of Gaza.
According to police, around 500 to 600 people were present when the protest began, though many were onlookers or media.
Officers began making arrests after hundreds simultaneously revealed placards. Those who complied were escorted away, while some remained seated or lay on the ground and were carried out.
The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that the number of arrests was the highest recorded by the force in a single day in the past decade. Amnesty International has described the scale of arrests as ‘deeply concerning,’ arguing that the protesters were not inciting violence.
The protest follows the first charges laid in England and Wales against individuals accused of supporting Palestine Action since the ban. The High Court is due to hear a legal challenge to the proscription, with lawyers for the group’s co-founder arguing that it breaches the right to free expression.
Government ministers have defended the ban, stating that public safety and national security must take precedence. Organisers have said the turnout reflects widespread opposition to what they describe as the government’s complicity in Gaza’s suffering.
ALSO READ | WHO raises alarm over rising child malnutrition in Gaza
