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A pro-Palestine campaigner who was yesterday charged under Jersey’s terrorism law has shared a statement voicing her "disbelief" while thanking those who protested in support of her.
Natalie Strecker describes herself as a human rights campaigner and has been involved with the Jersey Palestine Solidarity Campaign.
Ms Strecker was arrested in November after the States of Jersey Police received a complaint – with the force confirming yesterday that a 49-year-old woman had been charged with offences under Article 13(1) of the Terrorism (Jersey) Law 2002, which relate to “inviting support of a proscribed organisation”.
Pictured: Protest outside the police station as pro-Palestine activist Natalie Strecker charged under the island’s terrorism law. (James Jeune)
“She has subsequently been released on conditional Centenier’s bail and will appear at the Magistrate’s Court on 6 February 2025,” the police statement continued. “As this is an ongoing investigation, we are unable to comment further at this stage.”
In a statement, Ms Strecker said: "It is with complete disbelief that I confirm that I have today been charged with two offences under Jersey's 'Terrorism Law 2002' for allegedly "inviting support for a proscribed organisation".
"I cannot say much at this stage, but I will say that I absolutely refute these allegations and will fight to clear my name.
"It is terrifying that this year, as we celebrate the 80th anniversary of our Liberation from Nazi occupation and reflect on the sacrifices our grandparents made to achieve our Liberation and protect our freedoms, that I, a human rights defender and aspiring pacifist, face charges for advocating for another people subject to occupation and untold suffering.
Video: Protesters gathered outside Police HQ yesterday afternoon.
"I remain firm in my commitment to the recognition and application of international law, including the European Convention on Human Rights, which seems to be under increasing threat.
"Our ability to freely express ourselves is a fundamental part of any democracy and our right to do so is being undermined by this weaponisation of legislation.
"Thank you to all those who have expressed their support. I am eternally grateful to each of you."
Pictured top: Natalie Strecker acknowledged supporters protesting outside the police station before she went inside. (James Jeune)
WATCH: Protesters gather as Palestine campaigner charged with terror offence
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