Police officers in Norwich detained a man dressed as Father Christmas during a demonstration on Saturday, in a scene that blended festive humour with serious legal allegations. The individual was one of ten people arrested at the protest, which was organised by the group Defend Our Juries.
Festive Figure Faces Detention
Footage from the event shows the costumed man being led away by four police officers in the city centre. As he was detained, he was heard making light of the situation with seasonal quips. He shouted, 'these guys are going on the naughty list', and also declared, 'Ho, Ho, Ho, Merry Christmas kids' and 'I've got presents to make'.
The arrest drew mixed reactions from bystanders, with many bemused onlookers laughing and some applauding the spectacle. A woman dressed as an elf was also seen in the back of a police van following the demonstration.
Charges Under the Terrorism Act
The arrests were made on suspicion of a specific offence. All ten individuals were detained on suspicion of displaying an item in support of a proscribed organisation, contrary to Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000. The placards they held read: 'I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action'.
Following their arrest, the group was taken to the Wymondham Police Investigation Centre for questioning. Police were present at the protest from 12.30pm until 3pm on Saturday.
Broader Context of the Ban and Reaction
The incident occurred against the backdrop of a government ban on Palestine Action, which was formally proscribed in July. The ban followed alleged attacks on a UK site linked to Israel's defence industry and on aircraft at RAF Brize Norton. Membership or open support for the group is now a criminal offence, carrying a maximum sentence of up to 14 years in prison.
Defend Our Juries, the protest organisers, strongly condemned the government's decision. A spokesperson stated the action represented 'people of courage and conscience taking action to resist the government's clampdown on our fundamental rights to protest and free speech.'
In a social media post referencing the arrest, the group wrote: 'Santa Claus has been arrested under the Terrorism Act in Norwich after it turns out Santa oppo-ho-ho-ses genocide and supports Palestine Action.' They added, 'These four officers will be having their names checked twice this year.'
Superintendent Terry Lordan of Norfolk Police commented on the force's approach. 'As we have seen throughout the summer, officers will always work to protect the democratic right to assembly and facilitate peaceful protest,' he said. 'Our role is to prevent disorder, damage and disruption... Today, this involved arresting individuals who were committing offences under the Terrorism Act. The actions of this group were unlawful and officers have used their powers accordingly.'
According to Defend Our Juries, more than 2,000 people have been arrested since the law banning support for Palestine Action came into effect.
