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Swarthmore Police Arrest 9, Dismantle Pro-Palestinian Encampment Following FBI Pressure

The college cited federal law enforcement concerns as the driving force behind the rapid intervention to end the student-led protest on Trotter Lawn.

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Overview

  • Nine individuals, including one current and one former Swarthmore student, were arrested Saturday morning as police forcibly cleared the pro-Palestinian encampment.
  • The encampment, established on Wednesday by Swarthmore Students for Justice in Palestine, demanded divestment from entities profiting off the Gaza war and protections for at-risk students.
  • Swarthmore College President Valerie Smith stated that federal law enforcement, including the FBI, urged the college to act swiftly due to safety and security concerns.
  • Police used force to dismantle the site, removing tents and restraining protesters, some of whom were masked and unidentifiable, according to the college.
  • Seven students had been suspended earlier in the week for their involvement, and the college warned of potential expulsions for those defying orders to vacate.