Published: Saturday, 16th January, 2010 4:00pm

Tales of terror as police ran riot

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THREE brave Slough campaigners who risked their lives to deliver medical aid to victims of the Gaza conflict have spoken about the terrifying moment they were caught in the middle of violent clashes between protestors and Egyptian riot police.

Tom Baker, Haroon Nazir, and Rizwan Choudry were among 50 injured during the fierce struggle which was triggered when authorities denied entry to 70 of the 250 vehicles carrying aid as part of the Viva Palestina convoy.

The trio, who arrived back in the UK on Monday after a treacherous five week journey, described how 'legions' of police armed with batons surrounded them with the backing of water canons in an attempt to quell what they insist was a peaceful sit-in protest the port city of Al Arish.

Rizwan Choudry, 25, was left with a head injury and extensive bruising after being pounded with batons, while fellow protestor Tom Baker, also 25, needed three stitches on the back of his head after reportedly being hit by a stone.

They said: "We were at the other end of the group away from the scuffle but as it kicked off the police surrounded us and were swinging their batons at everyone and pelted us with stones."

Both were knocked to the ground and suffered heavy blood loss from their injuries.

Haroon Nazir, 23, who momentarily loss his sight while on the front line during the violence, added: "It started out as a bit of pushing and shoving but then the police got heavy handed.

"Before we knew it they were spraying us with pepper spray while kicking up sand in our faces and firing tear gas. The scariest moment for me was when I could not see after being sprayed."

For an in-depth report on the journey, which eventually managed to reach Gaza, see next week's Observer.