Swansea Mother Traumatised by Arrest: Understanding the Impact
In a shocking turn of events, Emma Kamio, a 57-year-old Swansea woman, found herself at the center of a harrowing ordeal that left her traumatized. Arrested under the Terrorism Act and held incommunicado for five days, Kamio’s life was turned upside down due to her daughter’s alleged involvement in an action against an Israeli arms company. The incident took place after a Palestine Action protest at an Elbit Systems UK building near Patchway on the outskirts of Bristol.
The Traumatic Experience
Kamio, who runs her own homeopathy and pilates business, was taken into custody in front of her son and neighbors, with three laptops and mobile phones seized during her arrest. She described her time in custody as a nightmare, with no access to a duty solicitor for the first two days. Things only escalated when she was transferred to the custody of counter-terrorism police and subjected to what she called “psychological torture” – being held in a filthy cell, searched repeatedly, and forced to endure sleepless nights with bright lights on.
A Mother’s Fear
The trauma of the experience extended beyond the physical conditions of her detention. Kamio recounted the heart-wrenching moment when she and her daughter were transported in cages in the back of a van, unable to see each other during a high-speed journey. The fear and uncertainty she felt during that ride still haunts her to this day, highlighting the emotional toll such an experience can take on a mother trying to protect her family.
Recovery and Justice
Despite being eventually released without charge, Kamio’s ordeal did not end there. Her personal belongings, including electronic devices, clothing, and sentimental jewelry, were not returned to her. As she struggles to rebuild her life and business post-pandemic, the impact of the incident continues to linger. While complaints against officers are being investigated, questions remain about the handling of her case and the lasting effects of such traumatic encounters on individuals and their families.
