Journalist Richard Medhurst arrested at Heathrow Airport under terrorism act

British journalist Richard Medhurst said on social media platform X that he was arrested at London's Heathrow Airport under Section 12 of the Terrorism Act.

Medhurst said he was accused of "expressing an opinion or belief that is supported by the proscribed organisation".

He was released after being held for nearly 24 hours, but said he was severely mistreated by British officers.

Medhurst said he felt targeted due to speaking out on the situation in Palestine.

I was arrested at Heathrow Airport under the Terrorism Act, Sec 12 because of my reporting.

6 police officers were waiting for me at the entrance of the aircraft.

I was held for almost 24 hours and questioned.

I believe I'm the first journalist to be arrested under this… pic.twitter.com/pbf6q5dXIf

— Richard Medhurst (@richimedhurst) August 19, 2024