Activist found not guilty of 'supporting Hamas'

A WOMAN who told a crowd that Hamas is “fighting for freedom” has been found not guilty of expressing support for a proscribed organisation.

- CLAIRE HAYHURST and ELEANOR STOREY

Kwabena Devonish, front, second left holding red coat, with supporters outside Bristol Crown Court

Kwabena Devonish, 27, of Pentre-bane, Cardiff, denied a charge of expressing an opinion or belief that is supportive of a proscribed organisation, namely Hamas, contrary to the Terrorism Act 2000.

Bristol Crown Court heard she attended a march in Cardiff in November 2023 and addressed a crowd gathered at Tŷ William Morgan in Central Square, telling them she was “sick of being told to condemn Hamas”.

A jury unanimously acquitted Devonish, who was arrested in January 2024 after a video of her speech was posted on social media, of the single charge against her following a two-day trial at the court.

Supporters of the defendant, who were sitting in the public gallery, cheered and clapped the jury after the verdict was delivered yesterday afternoon.