Seven Individuals Detained During Peace Encampment Outside RAF Base
Seven people have been taken into custody on suspicion of supporting the banned organisation Palestine Action during anti-war demonstrations outside RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk. The arrests occurred on Sunday morning at a peace encampment established outside the main gate of the airbase, where protesters had gathered to voice opposition to potential military conflict involving Iran.
Background to the Demonstrations
The protest activity follows media reports suggesting that a United States fighter jet, which was reportedly shot down in Iran on Friday, had originated from the Lakenheath facility. This connection has intensified local demonstrations, with activists establishing a sustained presence near the base entrance.
According to a statement released by the Lakenheath Alliance For Peace, the arrests were made shortly after retired colonel Chris Romberg addressed the assembled protesters. The group has been coordinating the encampment and related demonstrations against military escalation.
Police Statement and Legal Context
Suffolk Police confirmed the detentions, stating: 'Police have arrested seven people, five men and two women, in Lakenheath on suspicion of supporting a proscribed organisation. They have been taken to Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre for questioning.'
The police force emphasised their operational mandate, adding: 'Suffolk Police has a duty to enforce the law without fear or favour and as it currently stands, not as it might be in the future. As such, where offences are believed to have occurred appropriate action will be taken.'
This enforcement action occurs despite a recent High Court ruling in February that declared the proscription of Palestine Action unlawful. However, the court simultaneously granted the Home Office leave to appeal the decision, meaning the proscription remains legally in effect pending the outcome of that appeal process.
Additional Charges from Previous Day's Protest
In related developments, Suffolk Police separately confirmed that two individuals have been charged following a blockade at the base on Saturday. Michelle Macdonagh of Springhill, Stroud, Gloucestershire, and Yvan Cormier-Scott from Elphinstone Road, Southsea, Hampshire, both face charges of wilful obstruction of a highway.
Cormier-Scott has been bailed and is scheduled to appear at Ipswich Magistrates' Court on May 22. Macdonagh faces an additional charge of obstructing a police officer and has been bailed to appear before the same court on April 27.
Protest Activity and Visual Documentation
Visual evidence from the demonstrations shows Lakenheath Alliance For Peace members participating in an anti-war blockade outside RAF Lakenheath on April 4, 2026. Additional photographs reveal banners attached to perimeter fencing on April 3, 2026, displaying messages of peace and opposition to military action.
The ongoing protests represent sustained civilian opposition to military operations associated with the base, with organisers maintaining that their activities are peaceful expressions of dissent protected under democratic principles.
