A group of protesters was arrested on Saturday evening after breaching the grounds of Wormwood Scrubs prison in west London. The demonstration was in support of Muhammad Umer Khalid, a 22-year-old prisoner on a hunger strike, according to the Metropolitan Police.

Protest and Arrests

The Metropolitan Police reported that the protesters, who were advocating for Khalid, refused to vacate the premises when instructed. The group allegedly obstructed prison staff and threatened police officers, leading to their arrest on suspicion of aggravated trespass. Footage circulating on social media showed demonstrators chanting and holding signs outside the prison, with some managing to enter a staff entrance area.

Background on Khalid

Muhammad Umer Khalid, identified by the Prisoners for Palestine campaign group, is awaiting trial for his alleged involvement in a break-in at RAF Brize Norton last June. Khalid, who denies the charges, has limb-girdle muscular dystrophy and has reportedly embarked on a thirst strike, which the group describes as "extremely dangerous."

Official Responses

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson labeled the protest as an "unacceptable escalation," emphasizing that while peaceful protest is supported, the reported trespassing and threats are concerning. They assured that at no point was the prison's security compromised. The Prisoners for Palestine group claimed that at least 20 arrests were made during the protest.