News|PrisonPalestine Action hunger strikers to sue prisons over alleged mistreatmentFour activists who joined a daring hunger strike are planning to take legal action against the United Kingdom prisons that allegedly mistreated them.
London, United Kingdom – Eight activists affiliated with the protest group Palestine Action, who were released on bail following a High Court ruling in February, are pursuing legal action against prison authorities. The activists, who participated in a…
London, United Kingdom – Eight activists affiliated with the protest group Palestine Action, who were released on bail following a High Court ruling in February, are pursuing legal action against prison authorities. The activists, who participated in a hunger strike from November to January, allege mistreatment during their incarceration.
Qesser Zuhrah, Teuta Hoxha, Kamran Ahmed, and Heba Muraisi were bailed after the High Court declared the proscription of Palestine Action unlawful. The activists had been detained for 15 months related to a raid on the Elbit Systems UK factory in August 2024.
During a recent news conference, the activists described various forms of alleged mistreatment experienced in prison:
London, United Kingdom – Eight activists affiliated with the protest group Palestine Action, who were released on bail following a High Court ruling in February, are pursuing legal action against prison authorities.
Heba Muraisi reported suffering from neurological issues and hair loss following a 73-day hunger strike. She claimed physical assault, solitary confinement, and lack of electrolyte provision during the strike. Qesser Zuhrah described prolonged isolation and physical assault by guards, contributing to severe mental and physical distress. Kamran Ahmed reported chest pains and being tightly handcuffed during hospital admission. Teuta Hoxha claimed significant weight loss and the threat of severe penalties for fellow prisoners expressing solidarity with Palestine.
The group ended their hunger strike after the UK denied a military contract to Elbit Systems UK, choosing Raytheon UK instead. The detainees, known as the "Filton 24", have denied charges including burglary and criminal damage, with most now bailed except Samuel Corner, who faces additional charges.
The Home Office intends to appeal the High Court decision, with a hearing reportedly scheduled for April. The Ministry of Justice has denied allegations of mistreatment during the hunger strike.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
