Detention without trial at Belmarsh


Detention without trial at Belmarsh

Written by: Harmit Athwal


On Sunday 4 April, over 250 people gathered outside Belmarsh maximum-security prison to mark the detention without trial of fourteen men, all foreign nationals, held under the Anti Terrorism Crime and Security Act.

The men, who have not been charged or convicted of any offences, are being detained indefinitely because they are suspected of being linked to terrorist groups.

The rally, organised by the Campaign Against Criminalising Communities, was attended by a wide cross section of people, who were entertained by Rhythms of Resistance Samba band, Clear Air Turbulence theatre and MC Double Negative. Speeches were given by lawyers, campaigners and those who have been affected by anti-terror laws and a statement from the detainees – published in the Guardian in February 2004 – was read out.

Related links

Campaign Against Criminalising Communities

Guardian – Statement from the detainees


The Institute of Race Relations is precluded from expressing a corporate view: any opinions expressed are therefore those of the authors.

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