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Massive Attack’s Robert Del Naja Arrested in Liverpool for Backing Proscribed Group

The detention after he held a placard supporting Palestine Action highlights tensions over the UK ban and the policing of public solidarity at the Labour conference.

Overview

  • Police arrested Robert Del Naja after he displayed a placard reading “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action” outside the Labour conference venue in Liverpool.
  • Video of the arrest shows Del Naja saying he “doesn't recognise the offence” before officers told him he was being detained for supporting a proscribed organisation.
  • Del Naja recently joined Palestine Action co-founder Huda Ammori and human rights barrister Michael Mansfield in a public call for Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to de‑proscribe Palestine Action.
  • Organisers and supporters have planned further protests, including a silent sign‑holding vigil timed to the opening day of the Labour conference.
  • Palestine Action was designated a proscribed (banned) group in the UK, meaning public support can lead to police action, a status that has intensified debate over free speech and protest policing.