Protest sees 35 held over 'Palestine Action support'

Police say they have arrested 35 people at a protest in Leicestershire on suspicion of having "material in support of" the proscribed group Palestine Action.

Leicestershire Police said it responded to protest activity outside a building in Meridian Way, Braunstone, on Thursday morning.

The force said 35 people were arrested under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000, which makes it an offence "to wear clothing or carry articles in public which arouse reasonable suspicion that an individual is a member or supporter of Palestine Action".

Police said officers remained at the location and Counter Terrorism Policing East Midlands (CTPEM) was leading the investigation.

Officers added a number of people had also been arrested on suspicion of breaching bail conditions - with all those arrested remaining in custody.

One person in the group of 35 was also further arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated public order.

A force spokesperson said: "Police continue to support the right to peacefully protest but we will also continue to take immediate action where reports of anyone seeking to commit crime or damage to property are made."

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