Massive Attack’s Robert Del Naja Arrested at London Palestine Action Protest

Robert Del Naja, the frontman and founding member of the trip-hop band Massive Attack, was among more than 500 people arrested during a mass demonstration in central London on Saturday. The protest, titled “Everyone Day,” was organized by the group Defend Our Juries to voice resistance against the UK government’s ban on Palestine Action.

Details of the Arrest at Trafalgar Square

The arrests took place on Saturday afternoon in Trafalgar Square. Robert Del Naja, 61, was observed sitting among hundreds of demonstrators holding a sign that read, “I Oppose Genocide, I Support Palestine Action.”

According to reports from the BBC, police officers approached Del Naja and placed him under arrest before carrying him away from the scene, while other protesters cheered and applauded.

The Legal Battle Over Palestine Action

The arrests stem from the government’s decision to ban Palestine Action in July 2025 under anti-terror legislation, making support for the organization a criminal offense. The legal status of this ban has been a point of contention:

• February Ruling: A High Court judgement ruled the ban unlawful.
• Current Status: The ban remains in place pending an appeal.
• Police Shift: While the Metropolitan Police initially indicated they were unlikely to craft arrests following the February ruling, they announced in March that they would resume arresting protesters who show support for the group.

Police Response and Warnings

Prior to the “Everyone Day” protest, Commander Claire Smart, who led the policing operations, warned that showing support for a proscribed organization is an offense under the Terrorism Act. The Metropolitan Police urged attendees to reflect on the potential consequences of their participation, stating they would not hesitate to act where the law was broken.

Del Naja’s Stance on the Protest

Before his arrest, Del Naja spoke with the Press Association regarding his decision to attend. He acknowledged the risks, specifically noting the “trepidation” regarding how a potential arrest might impact his music career, including the ability to travel and secure visas. Despite these concerns, he maintained his commitment to attending the demonstration.

Frequently Asked Questions

As the government’s appeal regarding the legality of the ban continues, the arrests at Trafalgar Square highlight the ongoing tension between national security legislation and the right to protest in the UK.