More than 200 people, including musician Robert del Naja from the band Massive Attack, were arrested during a large-scale protest in central London against the ban on Palestinian activist group Action.
The demonstration, which took place in Trafalgar Square on Saturday, saw hundreds of people gather in defiance of police warnings.The Metropolitan Police confirmed that 212 people, aged between 27 and 82, had been arrested for allegedly showing support for a banned organisation. Authorities said the protest was “more likely to involve abuse than lawful expression.”
Among the detainees is a musician
Del Naja, also known as 3D, was seen sitting among the protesters holding a sign that read, “I oppose genocide, I support action for Palestine.” Officers later approached him, informed him of his arrest, and led him away while fellow demonstrators chanted and expressed their support.In videos circulated online, onlookers chanted encouragement as officers picked up the musician and escorted him away.
Del Naja reportedly described his arrest as “illegal” and earlier admitted concerns about possible consequences for his international touring career.
Scenes of challenge and discomfort
The protest included a mix of participants, including elderly protesters sitting in camping chairs and others standing and holding signs. Several individuals were seen being physically escorted away by police, while some elderly protesters were escorted into police trucks.Chants of “Shame on you” rang out during the arrests. Witnesses also accused officers of using excessive force in certain instances, including dragging protesters without proper support.Some protesters wore symbolic clothing, including clothing and masks depicting political figures, while banners raised broader concerns about freedom of expression and civil liberties.
Legal battle fuels tensions
The arrests come amid an ongoing legal dispute over the government’s decision to ban Palestinian work. Earlier this year, the Supreme Court ruled that the ban was illegal, prompting police to briefly halt arrests. However, implementation resumed after authorities filed an appeal, which is expected to take months.Police stress that expressing support for a banned organization remains a crime under the Terrorism Act, regardless of ongoing court proceedings.
The organizers vowed to continue the resistance
The protest was organized by the group Defend Jury, which described the turnout as a sign that resistance to the ban remains “stronger than ever.”The group says the issue extends beyond one organization and threatens broader rights to protest and freedom of expression.Participants echoed similar sentiments, warning that restrictions on one group could set a precedent for curbing dissent more broadly.Former senior police officials pointed to the practical difficulty of dealing with large crowds willing to risk arrest. With hundreds participating, the situation presented logistical and reputational challenges for law enforcement.Observers also highlighted growing public sympathy for the protesters’ cause, even as authorities continued to enforce the law.According to police data, more than 3,000 people have been arrested since the Palestinian work ban last year, with the majority of cases recorded in London.
