Police have confirmed that arrests were made at a protest in Liverpool on Sunday, September 28th. The demonstration, organised by the campaign group Defend Our Juries, took place near the Wheel of Liverpool, a prominent city landmark.
Officers intervened after some individuals at the event displayed material reportedly in support of Palestine Action. The arrests were made on suspicion of wearing or carrying an article that supports a proscribed organisation, according to a statement from law enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- Police made arrests at a Defend Our Juries protest near the Wheel of Liverpool.
- The arrests were related to suspicion of supporting a proscribed organisation.
- Some attendees reportedly displayed material linked to the Palestine Action group.
- The incident involves UK anti-terrorism legislation regarding support for banned groups.
Police Presence and Action at City Centre Protest
Merseyside Police were in attendance at a planned demonstration on Sunday afternoon. The protest was situated in a high-profile area of the city, near the popular Wheel of Liverpool attraction on the waterfront.
The event was organised by Defend Our Juries, a group that campaigns on issues related to the rights of juries in the UK legal system. While the primary focus of the group is legal reform, the demonstration drew attention for different reasons.
Police have confirmed that officers began making arrests during the event. A spokesperson stated the action was taken on suspicion of an offence under the Terrorism Act 2000.
Details of the Alleged Offence
The specific grounds for the arrests were cited as "Wearing/carrying an article supporting a proscribed organisation." This offence falls under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000.
According to the police statement, some individuals present at the protest were seen with material that showed support for Palestine Action. While Palestine Action itself is not a proscribed organisation in the United Kingdom, the police action suggests a potential link between the displayed materials and an organisation that is officially banned.
What is a Proscribed Organisation?
Under the UK's Terrorism Act 2000, the Home Secretary has the power to "proscribe" or ban organisations believed to be concerned in terrorism. It is a criminal offence for a person to belong to, invite support for, or arrange a meeting in support of a proscribed organisation. Displaying articles or clothing in a public place that arouse suspicion of membership or support for such a group is also an offence.
Understanding the Groups Involved
The event brought together different campaigning interests, leading to the police intervention. The initial protest was organised by one group, but the presence of materials supporting another led to the arrests.
Defend Our Juries Campaign
Defend Our Juries is a UK-based campaign group. Its primary objective is to protect what it sees as the fundamental right of a jury to acquit a defendant according to their conscience, regardless of the directions from a judge.
The group often holds demonstrations outside courts and in public spaces to raise awareness about their cause. Their protests are typically focused on legal principles and the role of juries within the justice system.
Palestine Action and Proscription Laws
Palestine Action is a direct-action network that focuses on companies in the UK it accuses of being complicit in Israeli actions against Palestinians. The group is known for protests targeting factories and offices of such companies.
Legal Framework: Section 13 of the Terrorism Act
The law used as the basis for the arrests makes it an offence to wear an item of clothing or to wear, carry, or display an article in public in such a way or in such circumstances as to arouse reasonable suspicion that the person is a member or supporter of a proscribed organisation. A conviction can lead to imprisonment or a fine.
It is important to note that while Palestine Action is not on the UK's list of proscribed organisations, other groups associated with the Palestinian cause, such as Hamas, are banned. The police have not yet specified which proscribed organisation the displayed materials were alleged to support.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Response
Police have stated that an investigation is ongoing following the arrests made on Sunday. They have indicated that further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
"We can confirm that officers are in attendance at a Defend Our Juries protest near to The Wheel of Liverpool this afternoon, Sunday 28 September... Officers are in the process of making arrests on suspicion of Wearing/carrying an article supporting a proscribed organisation."
The number of individuals arrested has not yet been officially released. The incident highlights the complex legal landscape surrounding public protests, particularly when they intersect with sensitive geopolitical issues.
The right to protest is a protected part of UK law, but it is subject to limitations, especially concerning national security and public order. The use of anti-terrorism legislation in the context of a public demonstration often draws scrutiny and public debate.
As of now, the individuals who were arrested are being processed, and the investigation will determine if formal charges will be brought forward. This event serves as a reminder of the significant powers available to law enforcement when dealing with perceived support for banned organisations.