Gloucestershire Police arrested 16 individuals on suspicion of committing a terrorism offence during a protest outside Gloucester Cathedral. The demonstration, held on Tuesday afternoon, opposed the designation of Palestine Action as a proscribed terrorist organization and was organized by Defend Our Juries.
Officers engaged with the protesters, advising them to leave, remove placards supporting the banned group, or provide their personal details. When the protesters declined to cooperate, police took the step of arresting 16 people to legally process the offence.
All those arrested have since been released on bail pending further investigation. Additionally, one individual was dealt with at the scene after providing their details.
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A Gloucestershire Police spokesperson stated: “Officers were made aware of a planned gathering at Gloucester Cathedral supporting a proscribed organization, an offence under the Terrorism Act 2000. Despite repeated opportunities to comply, the protesters refused, necessitating arrests. Those convicted under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000 face up to six months imprisonment and fines up to £5,000.”
Assistant Chief Constable Arman Mathieson emphasized the balance between democratic rights and law enforcement: “We respect the right to protest, but action is taken when the law is broken. Officers provided multiple chances to leave or cooperate and only arrested when all other options were exhausted. Our response remains professional, precise, and compassionate, ensuring public safety while upholding legal obligations.”