UK police have arrested a group of pro-Palestinian demonstrators after they entered restricted areas at HMP Wormwood Scrubs in west London during a protest in support of a prisoner on hunger strike.
The Metropolitan Police said officers were called on Saturday evening after a group of activists gathered outside the prison in support of Umer Khalid, who is described by campaigners as the last remaining participant in the Prisoners for Palestine hunger strike campaign. The protest escalated when several individuals refused to leave prison grounds after being instructed to do so.
Breach of Secure Area
According to the Met, the group blocked prison staff from entering and leaving the site and threatened officers. Some protesters also managed to access a staff-only entrance area of one of the prison buildings, prompting immediate intervention by police.
Arrests Made
Officers detained a number of people on suspicion of aggravated trespass. The force said enquiries were ongoing and further arrests could follow. No injuries were reported.
Footage Circulates Online
Videos shared on social media showed demonstrators chanting and holding placards outside the prison, before moving towards one of the buildings. One clip appeared to show protesters inside a restricted section of the site.
Hunger Strike Background
The protest centres on Umer Khalid, who supporters say is continuing a hunger strike launched by a group of pro-Palestinian detainees. The campaign has drawn attention amid wider national debate over the treatment of activists held on remand and the use of public order and counter-terror legislation following protests linked to the Gaza conflict.
Police Response
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said the group had been arrested for breaching prison security and obstructing staff, stressing that safety at the site and the protection of prison workers were the priority.