Seven arrested over alleged Palestine Action support at Suffolk RAF base
They were arrested outside the main gate of Lakenheath airbase
Last updated 21 hours ago
Seven people have been arrested on suspicion of supporting a banned group, Palestine Action, during peace protests at RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk.
The arrests, involving five men and two women, took place at a peace encampment outside the airbase's main gate on Sunday morning.
These events follow reports from certain media outlets claiming a US fighter jet shot down in Iran on Friday had departed from Lakenheath base.
A spokesperson from the Lakenheath Alliance For Peace noted that the arrests happened following a speech delivered by retired Colonel Chris Romberg to protesters.
The Suffolk Police released a statement confirming the arrests and detailing that the individuals were being questioned at Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre.
Suffolk Police said: “Police have arrested seven people, five men and two women, in Lakenheath on suspicion of supporting a proscribed organisation.
“They have been taken to Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre for questioning. Suffolk Police has a duty to enforce the law without fear or favour and as it currently stands, not as it might be in the future. As such, where offences are believed to have occurred appropriate action will be taken.”
Despite the High Court ruling in February that the proscription of Palestine Action was unlawful, the measure remains in effect as the Home Office is permitted to appeal the decision.
The arrests are part of a six-day peace camp involving continuous vigils outside the Lakenheath base gates, which is expected to conclude on Monday.