Two people were arrested after a protest in Stroud calling for the ban on Palestine Action to be lifted, police have confirmed.
About 15 protesters gathered in the town on Saturday, October 10, according to a police spokesperson. The arrests followed what police described as the display of signs expressing support for a proscribed organisation.
What police said happened
A police spokesperson said officers had been made aware in advance that people were planning to gather for a protest in Stroud.
Police said two protesters were carrying signs expressing support for a proscribed organisation, which officers said was an offence under the Terrorism Act 2000.
According to the force, officers gave the two people an opportunity either to leave the protest or remove the signs. Police said the protesters continued to show support for the group.
The pair were then asked for their names. Officers explained that they could be arrested if they did not provide their details, police said.
Police said the two people continued to refuse to cooperate and were arrested before being taken into custody.
Investigation continues
Both people were released under investigation while enquiries continue. The investigation is being carried out by officers from Counter Terrorism Policing.
Being released under investigation does not represent a finding of guilt. The source material does not identify either of the two people arrested or provide further details about any future court hearing.
Potential penalty
Police said anyone found guilty under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000 faces up to six months in prison and a fine of up to £5,000.
The arrests came during a protest calling for the ban on Palestine Action to be lifted. The police statement described the signs as expressing support for a proscribed organisation and said the alleged offence was being dealt with under the Terrorism Act 2000.