Plaid Cymru the Party of Wales European leader Jill Evans MEP has called for an investigation into the detention of a Welshman, who has been arrested in Jayyous, Palestine.

Ceri Gibbons, an International Solidarity Movement volunteer from Aberystwyth, was arrested on November 15 while helping to form a human chain to protect agricultural land from destruction by the Israeli Army and contractors building the infamous Wall.

Speaking from Strasbourg, Ms Evans, who is also Chair of CND Cymru, said:

"I understand that twenty five volunteers, along with 200 Palestinian men, women, and children, sat down in the road in peaceful protest. It seems the army and military police pushed the line, threw teargas, sound bombs and shot rounds of live ammunition into the crowd."

"Ceri Gibbons was amongst the peace activists who tried to help those being mistreated, when he himself was arrested by military police."

"Although it was reported that a hearing was to take place today, I understand from the British Consul that this hearing did not involve Ceri directly."

"I am seeking clarification about this, and also asking for an investigation into allegations, that, although Ceri now has access to a telephone and has appointed a lawyer, he was initially mistreated, denied food and water, and deprived of sleep."

Ceri is charged with the relatively minor offence of being in a closed military zone, and is appealing against his deportation.

Jill Evans, who was part of a delegation to Palestine and Israel earlier this year, added:

"I am proud that volunteers from Wales are going to Palestine to help protect the civilian population, and to offer practical help. I have seen for myself how difficult this situation is."

Diwedd/Ends.