Robert Del Naja, a core member of the band Massive Attack, was arrested Saturday during a demonstration in London's Trafalgar Square. The protest supported Palestine Action, a pro-Palestinian direct action network recently proscribed in the UK.
The Metropolitan Police reported 523 arrests at the demonstration, with individuals aged 18 to 87. Del Naja was observed holding a sign stating "I Oppose Genocide, I Support Palestine Action" before being escorted away by officers.
Del Naja expressed awareness of potential career impacts but felt compelled to participate. He stated his belief that the actions of Palestine Action were patriotic, aimed at preventing involvement in war crimes and international law violations. The artist confirmed his intention to contest any arrest.
Massive Attack has a history of supporting Palestine, including boycotting performances in Israel since 1999 and backing the "No Music For Genocide" campaign. The band is scheduled for European tour dates this summer, with potential travel implications from the arrest yet to be determined.