A PROTESTER threatened with arrest under the Terrorism Act for holding a Palestine flag and “Free Gaza” and “Israel is committing genocide” signs has received an apology from police for “unlawful false imprisonment.”

Kent Police have also agreed to pay damages and legal costs to Laura Murton after armed officers confronted her in Canterbury on July 14, claiming her protest expressed views supportive of Palestine Action, which had been banned earlier that month.

The case was later cited by a judge granting Palestine Action permission for judicial review of its proscription, and by the equalities watchdog warning of “heavy-handed” policing of Gaza protests.

A letter sent on behalf of chief constable Tim Smith admitted there had been a breach of Ms Murton’s right to free speech, as well as national counter-terrorism guidance and data protection laws.

Mr Smith confirmed her data had been deleted.

Officers had told Ms Murton she would be arrested unless she gave her name and address, which she did under threat.

She said she would donate any compensation to Palestinian causes, adding: “People should continue to exercise their lawful right to protest in support of the Palestinian people despite the proscription of Palestine Action.

“I hope this case serves as a reminder to chief constables across the country that there should be no unlawful interference with those protest rights.”

Footage of the incident shows an officer claiming “Free Gaza” was supportive of Palestine Action and therefore an offence under the Terrorism Act.

Amnesty International UK welcomed the outcome today, posting on X: “Thousands raised the alarm.

“When we act together to shine a light on injustice, we protect all our human rights.

“It’s clear: vague and broad laws result in unlawful policing.”