A university student has been arrested on suspicion of supporting Hamas after a speech was made in Brighton.
Counter Terrorism Policing South East have launched an investigation into the speech – and today confirmed they have arrested a 22-year-old.
The demonstration at the centre of the probe was held in Brighton on Sunday, where a suspect allegedly made comments in support of terrorist organisation Hamas, and their barbaric attacks against Israel.
Police today confirmed the woman has been arrested on suspicion of supporting a proscribed organisation, namley Harakat al-Muqawamah al-Islamiyyah (Hamas), under Section 12 of the Terrorism Act 2000.
Officers would now like to speak to anyone who attended the protest event and in particular, anyone who may have video footage of the protest and speech.
A report by the Daily Mail alleges the speech described members of Hamas as “beautiful” and “inspiring.”
The woman, who is from Brighton, was held on Thursday and is still in police custody.
Supt Petra Lazar from Sussex Police said: “After reviewing footage from the protest event held in Brighton on Sunday, October 8, the matter was investigated by Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE). We will continue to support them as they conduct their investigation.
“We are aware that the ongoing conflict in Israel and the border with Gaza is generating public concern and is impacting communities globally and locally, and we extend our support to those affected in Sussex.
“Sussex Police has increased visibility across parts of Sussex to provide an increased presence and reassurance to our local communities. We recognise there is the potential for increased tensions and are engaging and working with communities and partners to ensure people feel safe and protected.”
