A pro-Palestine protester who was threatened with arrest under the Terrorism Act for displaying a Palestinian flag and signs reading “Free Gaza” and “Israel is committing genocide” is taking legal action against Kent Police.
Laura Murton, 42, was confronted by armed officers in Canterbury last month. They told her that her demonstration expressed support for Palestine Action, a group banned under terrorism legislation in July 2025. Murton denied supporting any proscribed organisation.
Her solicitors have issued a letter of claim to the chief constable of Kent Police, seeking damages, an apology, and details of any information recorded about her. Murton intends to donate any compensation to Palestinian causes.
Shamik Dutta of Bhatt Murphy, representing Murton, said: “The legal challenge is being brought because as matters stand our client has neither received any apology nor any acknowledgment that Kent police conduct has been unlawful.”
During the encounter, which Murton filmed, an officer stated that phrases like “free Gaza” and “Israel genocide” fell under proscribed groups, and that expressing support for Palestine Action was an offence under section 12(1A) of the Terrorism Act. Murton was told she would be arrested unless she provided her name and address, which she did under duress.
