Three Arrested Over Palestine Action Support in Westminster Terror Probe
Three people have been hit with terror charges for backing Palestine Action, recently banned as a terrorist group under UK law. The pair of women and one man were nabbed during a protest in Westminster on 5 July and now face charges under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000, following CPS approval.
Who’s Been Charged?
- Jeremy Shippam, 71, West Sussex
- Judit Murray, 71, Surrey
- Fiona Maclean, 53, Hackney
All set to appear at 1 Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 16 September.
Met’s Hardline Stance: ‘We Will Enforce the Law’
Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command, didn’t mince words:
“Anyone who displays public support for Palestine Action, a proscribed organisation, is committing an offence under the Terrorism Act and can expect to be arrested and, as these charges show, will be investigated to the full extent of the law.”
The charges come from arrests during a coordinated show of support in central London on 5 July.
More Arrests Loom as Met Gears Up
The Met reveals files are being prepared for 26 more suspects caught at the same demo, with charging decisions due soon.
“I would strongly advise anyone planning to come to London this 1 to show support for Palestine Action to think about the potential criminal consequences of their actions,” Commander Murphy warned.
Palestine Action: What You Need to Know
The group is notorious for direct action against arms manufacturers. This year, it was slapped on the UK’s proscribed terrorist organisations list.
It’s now illegal to publicly back Palestine Action, wear its symbols, or attend meetings that endorse it.
Law in Focus: Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000
This section outlaws publicly displaying articles—like flags or emblems—that suggest support for a banned group. Offenders face up to six months behind bars and/or fines.
Got info or witnessed anything suspicious? Ring the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321 or report anonymously at Crimestoppers.
