Twenty-six individuals were detained under the Terrorism Act during a pro-Palestine demonstration near Lancaster Castle. The police confirmed that the arrests occurred as part of a wider security operation.
Authorities reported that the demonstration gathered a significant number of participants expressing support for Palestine. Security forces were deployed to maintain order and ensure public safety throughout the event.
A spokesperson for Lancashire Police stated that the arrests were made “in connection with offenses under the Terrorism Act” and that investigations are continuing. Officers emphasized their commitment to balancing the right to protest with the need to protect the public.
“We respect the right to peaceful protest, but any actions breaching UK law will be dealt with proportionally and firmly,” the police representative said.
Local groups expressed concern over the scale of the detentions and called for transparency in the ongoing investigation. Several human rights advocates urged the police to release further details about the alleged offenses.
The protest follows a series of nationwide demonstrations urging the UK government to respond more actively to the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Events like this have gained momentum across university towns and major cities since early autumn.
Author’s summary: Twenty-six protesters were arrested under the Terrorism Act at a pro-Palestine rally outside Lancaster Castle, amid growing national demonstrations over Gaza.