Police seek woman over alleged racially aggravated offence at Brighton protest
Sussex Police appeal to identify woman after alleged racially aggravated incident during Brighton pro-Palestine protest where chants were reported
Police are appealing for help to identify a woman they want to question over an alleged racially aggravated public order offence at a protest in Brighton.
Sussex Police released an image of the woman and said officers want to speak to her following the demonstration in Brighton city centre on 28 February.
In a statement, the force said: “Can you help us identify this woman, or is this you?
“We’re keen to speak to her in relation to a racially-aggravated public order offence at a protest in Brighton on 28 February.
“If this is you, or if you recognise the person, please report it online or call 101, quoting crime reference 47260040186.”
Police said officers were present at the protest to facilitate a peaceful demonstration while ensuring public safety as opposing groups gathered in the city centre.
During the afternoon, a 15-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence, but was later de-arrested following further enquiries.
A 66-year-old man from London was also arrested after an allegation of common assault, but he too, was later de-arrested.
Officers say they also received reports about a woman who was using a loud hailer to lead chants during the protest. Sussex Police said they recognised the potential impact that some of the language reported to have been used could have on local communities.
Videos circulating on social media from the demonstration appear to show chants including “intifada”, though police have not confirmed the specific language used.
A separate video circulating online also appears to show the same woman using a loud hailer at another protest while chanting “1, 2, 3, 4, Gaza broke the prison door”, though the footage has not been independently verified.
The matter is currently being assessed and reviewed in line with relevant legislation and operational guidance to determine whether any criminal offences have been committed, the force said.
Police added that if criminality is identified, appropriate action will be taken, and confirmed the investigation and review process remains ongoing.
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