Seven arrested at base demo accused of supporting banned group

Seven Arrested at RAF Base for Supporting Banned Group

During a peaceful demonstration at Lakenheath airbase, seven individuals were detained on suspicion of endorsing the Palestine Action organization, which is currently designated as a banned group. The arrests occurred on Sunday as protesters gathered outside the main entrance, participating in a protest against military involvement in the Iran conflict, according to Suffolk Police. The event was sparked by media reports suggesting a U.S. fighter jet downed in Iran had been stationed at the base.

The police spokesperson confirmed the detainees were held under “suspicion of supporting a proscribed organisation.” They were taken to Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre for further inquiry. “Suffolk Police maintains that its role is to uphold the law impartially, regardless of future developments,” the statement noted. “Where offences are believed to have occurred, appropriate measures will be implemented.”

“They have been taken to Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre for questioning,” the spokesperson added.

The High Court had previously ruled the proscription of Palestine Action as unlawful in February, yet it allowed the Home Office to challenge the decision, keeping the designation active until the appeal concludes. The protest, part of a six-day peace camp, included a continuous vigil at the base, set to conclude on Monday. The Lakenheath Alliance For Peace reported that the arrests followed a speech by retired colonel Chris Romberg to the demonstrators.

Suffolk Police also announced that two individuals had been charged with wilful obstruction of the highway due to a blockade set up at the base on Saturday. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between protesters and authorities over the base’s role in military operations. Do you have a story suggestion for Suffolk? Contact us below. Follow Suffolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.