British police arrest dozens after protest at west London prison

(MENAFN) British police arrested 86 individuals on suspicion of aggravated trespass after protesters entered the grounds of a west London prison during a demonstration in support of a Palestine Action activist, according to authorities.

The arrests occurred Saturday evening outside HMP Wormwood Scrubs, where demonstrators had gathered to protest the detention of a prisoner reportedly on hunger strike. Police said the group refused to leave when instructed, blocked prison staff from entering and exiting the facility, and made threats toward officers. Some protesters also gained access to a staff entrance within one of the prison buildings.

A Justice Ministry spokesperson described the incident as “deeply concerning.” “While we support the right to peacefully protest, reports of trespassing and threats being made to staff and police officers are deeply concerning,” the spokesperson said, adding that prison security was not compromised. The ministry noted that prisoners continue to be managed according to standard policy, including regular medical checks and monitoring by healthcare professionals.

Social media footage showed demonstrators chanting outside the prison, with some carrying signs. The protest was organized in support of Umer Khalid, described by the group as the last remaining participant in the “Prisoners for Palestine” hunger strike campaign.

Authorities said investigations into the incident are ongoing.

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