Seven arrested at base demo accused of supporting banned group

Suffolk Police confirmed seven individuals were detained on suspicion of backing the proscribed group Palestine Action during a peace demonstration at an RAF installation. The arrests occurred on Sunday near the main gate of Lakenheath airbase, where protesters were gathered against the Iran conflict, the force stated.

The protest emerged following media reports that a US fighter jet shot down in Iran on Friday had been stationed at Lakenheath. A spokesperson for Suffolk Police emphasized that the detained individuals were held “on suspicion of supporting a proscribed organisation.” They further noted that the group had 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,”

the spokesperson added.

In February, the High Court ruled the proscription of Palestine Action unlawful, yet allowed the Home Office to appeal the decision. This means the ban remains active pending the outcome of the legal challenge.

Sunday’s protest was part of a six-day peace encampment that included a continuous vigil outside the base, set to conclude on Monday. The Lakenheath Alliance For Peace stated the arrests followed a speech by retired colonel Chris Romberg to the demonstrators.

Suffolk Police also revealed two people had been charged with wilful obstruction of the highway after a blockade at the airbase on Saturday. The incident occurred during the ongoing six-day campaign, which has drawn attention to the connection between the base and recent events in Iran.

Do you have a story suggestion for Suffolk? Contact us below. Follow Suffolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.