A placard quoting the former leader of Hamas at a recent protest has been reported as a crime.

A woman was spotted holding a placard with a quote from Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar at a Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) march in Brighton on October 20. The sign quoted an excerpt from a 2018 interview with Sinwar.

Magda Falka who observed the protest said: “I believe in the co-existence between Palestinians and Israelis – there is nothing more important than peace in these horrible times. But what I saw was not people being pro peace or pro Palestine but anti-Israel and advocates for hate.”

A spokesman for Sussex Police said: “We are aware of a report of a sign which caused concern at a protest in Brighton on 20 October.

“If you have any information please contact police online or call 101 quoting serial 1187 of 20/10.

“Sussex Police is aware that the ongoing conflict in Israel and in Gaza is generating public concern and is impacting communities globally and locally, and we extend our support to those affected in Sussex.

“We recognise there is the potential for increased tensions and are engaging with communities and partners to ensure people feel safe and protected.”