Eighty-six protesters have been arrested by the Metropolitan Police on suspicion of aggravated trespass following a demonstration at HMP Wormwood Scrubs in west London. The arrests occurred on Saturday evening after the group breached the prison grounds while protesting in support of a Palestine Action prisoner who is currently on hunger strike.
Protest Escalation and Police Response
According to police reports, the demonstrators refused to leave the premises when ordered to do so by officers. The group allegedly blocked prison staff from entering and leaving the facility and issued threats towards police personnel. Furthermore, a number of those detained reportedly managed to gain entry to a staff entrance area of a prison building, though authorities have confirmed that security was not ultimately compromised.
Ministry of Justice Statement
A Ministry of Justice spokesperson described the incident as "deeply concerning" and stated that while the government supports the right to peaceful protest, the escalation at HMP Wormwood Scrubs was "completely unacceptable." The spokesperson emphasised that reports of trespassing and threats made to staff and police officers were particularly troubling.
The Ministry of Justice further clarified: "At no point was prison security compromised, however where individuals' actions cause risk or actual harm to hardworking staff, this will not be taken lightly and those responsible can expect to face consequences."
Hunger Strike Context
The protest was held in support of Umer Khalid, who is reportedly the last remaining participant in the Prisoners for Palestine hunger strike campaign according to the group. The Ministry of Justice confirmed that prisoners on hunger strike are being managed in line with longstanding policy, which includes regular medical checks, heart monitoring, blood tests, and support to help them resume eating and drinking. Healthcare teams have the authority to transfer prisoners to hospital if deemed medically appropriate.
Social Media Evidence
Footage shared on social media platforms showed a group chanting outside the prison with some holding signs. In one sequence, the group can be seen moving towards a building, and one clip appears to show some demonstrators inside the facility. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrests took place following these developments at the west London prison.
