Lincolnshire Police Update on Arrests Following RAF Scampton Protest
Four individuals, who had been arrested in connection to a demonstration outside the former RAF Scampton base, have been released under police bail, as per an update given by the Lincolnshire Police. The specifics of their bail conditions prohibit them from being within a 200m radius of the RAF facility for a set period of time. The police spokesperson added that investigations into the situation persist.
Details of Arrestees
Those arrested on October 10 include four individuals from within and outside the Lincolnshire region. Among them was a 42-year-old man hailing from Lincolnshire who has been suspected of engaging in aggravated trespass. Additionally, a 56-year-old male from Yorkshire was taken into custody under suspicion of assault alongside aggravated trespass. Two others were arrested on similar charges; a 44-year-old man from Grimsby and a 51-year-old woman from Yorkshire.
A Persistent Police Presence
The police also confirmed that for the sole purpose of maintaining safety and peace, patrols will persistently be conducted while there remains a presence of protestors. Local residents in conjunction with activists have formed picket lines at the gates of the RAF Scampton outside, vehemently opposing the Home Office's proposal to turn the location into a facility for migrant processing.
Planned Housing for Asylum Seekers
Should the proposal pass, approximately 2,000 men will be provisionally housed in portacabins placed within the RAF Scampton premises before the year's conclusion. The prospect is being met with resistance from locals and protestors alike as expressed by Tom Winter, 61, who is among the demonstrators at the location.
"We try to keep it peaceful. People come here from all over the country to protest," explained Winter. He added "A lot of people are terrified that the school is so close to the camp. Most of the people here are concerned and vulnerable."
West Lindsey District Council Intervention
The West Lindsey District Council has stepped in, classifying the proposal as unlawful. They have taken legal action and initiated a judicial review process. The council has also issued a formal notice to halt all operations related to the repurposing of the site.