British police have arrested four individuals in connection with a pro-Palestinian protest that targeted a military air base in central England last week, where planes were damaged and defaced with red paint.

In a statement released on Friday, authorities confirmed that a 29-year-old woman and two men, aged 36 and 24, were arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism. A fourth person, a 41-year-old woman, was detained on suspicion of assisting an offender.

The arrests follow an incident on 20 June, when two activists from the group Palestine Action infiltrated the base and sprayed red paint on two aircraft used for refuelling and transport. The protest drew immediate condemnation from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who labelled the act “disgraceful.”

In response to the attack, the British government swiftly announced plans to designate Palestine Action a terrorist organisation under anti-terror laws, a move that would make membership a criminal offence. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that the group’s actions had become “increasingly aggressive” and had caused millions of pounds in damages.

The government also launched a comprehensive review of security protocols at all British defence sites in the wake of the breach.

Palestine Action, known for its direct-action protests targeting UK arms suppliers with links to Israel, has claimed responsibility for several high-profile disruptions in recent years. However, the use of terrorism legislation to respond to their activities marks a significant escalation in the government’s stance.

The investigation into the June 20 incident is ongoing, and authorities say further arrests and security measures may follow.

Melissa Enoch

Follow us on: