From 18 to 87: Over 500 arrested in London for backing banned group

Police confirm over 500 detentions

In a post on X, the Metropolitan Police said that 523 individuals were detained “for showing support for a proscribed organisation.” Those arrested ranged in age from 18 to 87.

Crowds gather at Trafalgar Square

The protest saw large crowds gather at Trafalgar Square, holding placards backing the group. One sign read: “I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.”

Saturday’s demonstration, dubbed “Everyone Day,” was organised by Defend Our Juries, which described the event as a show of “unwavering resistance” to the ban, according to the BBC.

The controversy follows earlier mass arrests in September 2025, when more than 890 people were detained during protests at Parliament Square over coordinated displays of support for Palestine Action, which is designated under the Terrorism Act.

Police reiterate legal position

In a separate statement, the Metropolitan Police reiterated that Palestine Action remains a proscribed organisation and that expressing support for it constitutes a criminal offence. “Where officers identify individuals engaging in such activity, enforcement action, including arrest, will follow,” the statement said.

The UK government banned support for Palestine Action in July 2025 under anti-terror laws. Although the ban was ruled unlawful in February, it remains in force pending an appeal, the BBC reported.

Following the High Court’s ruling, police had initially suggested arrests were unlikely. However, by March, authorities confirmed they would resume detaining protesters expressing support for the group.