London: more than 500 pro-Palestine action demonstrators arrested

Sunday 12 April 2026 - 09:45

More than 500 demonstrators were arrested in central London on Saturday during a protest calling for the lifting of the ban on the activist group Palestine Action, according to local authorities.

The gathering took place around midday in Trafalgar Square, where several hundred people participated in what organizers described as a peaceful sit-in. Many attendees held signs expressing support for the group and opposition to ongoing violence in Gaza.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, London’s Metropolitan Police confirmed that 523 individuals were detained. Authorities noted that those arrested ranged in age from 18 to 87, highlighting the wide demographic involved in the demonstration.

Among those detained was Robert Del Naja, a member of the British music group Massive Attack. Reports indicated that he was seated with a sign supporting Palestine Action before being escorted away by police officers.

Palestine Action has been engaged in a legal dispute with the British government after being banned in July following acts of vandalism attributed to some of its members, including incidents targeting military facilities. Earlier this year, a UK court described the ban as “disproportionate.” However, the government has appealed the ruling, meaning the prohibition remains in effect while the case is under review.

The group has been vocal in its criticism of the war in Gaza, which escalated after the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023. Under current regulations, publicly expressing support for Palestine Action can result in penalties of up to six months in prison. More serious involvement, such as membership or organizing support events, may carry significantly longer sentences.

Since the ban was introduced, more than 2,700 people have reportedly been arrested in connection with demonstrations supporting the group, with hundreds facing formal charges. These protests have been organized by advocacy networks defending civil liberties and the right to protest.