Gerry Carroll condemns PSNI over arrest
A 62-year-old woman has been arrested in Belfast under terrorism legislation for wearing a t-shirt.
The woman was detained in the city centre while wearing a ‘Palestine Action’ t-shirt on Saturday afternoon. The arrest happened against the backdrop of an anti-immigration protest and counter-protest in the area behind Belfast City Hall.
The government proscribed the group in July under the Terrorism Act of 2000, making membership of or support for it a criminal offence, punishable by up to 14 years in prison.
In a statement, the PSNI said police “have arrested a 62-year-old woman on suspicion of possession of an article that indicates support for a proscribed organisation in the Linenhall Street area of Belfast city centre this afternoon, Saturday 9th August”.
They added: “One man, aged 43, was also arrested for disorderly behaviour. They remain in custody at this time, assisting with police enquiries. A further two males at the same location have also been cautioned on suspicion of possession of an article that indicates support for a proscribed organisation.”
Instagram video of the arrest shows the woman lying on the ground having indicated she will not go to a police vehicle voluntarily. As she is carried away by officers some in the crowd shout “you’re arresting some for a t-shirt” while others reference the “genocide in Palestine”.
People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll condemned the PSNI over the arrest.
He said: “The whole world can see the mass starvation and daily executions carried out by Israel, yet the people being harassed in Belfast are those who stand up for Palestine. On the same day we saw far-right protesters with offensive and provocative signage, including pro-Israel items, the police took it upon themselves to arrest activists for having the temerity to wear items of clothing in solidarity action.
“The British government implemented a regressive clampdown with their vote to proscribe Palestine Action, without a single vote being cast in the local Assembly. I’m calling on Executive Ministers to speak up for the right to protest, organise for peace and to have these charges thrown out. “
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