Police drop criminal investigation into street preacher
Avon and Somerset Police have concluded a criminal investigation into Pastor Dia Moodley, a street preacher arrested in Bristol in November 2025, confirming that no further action will be taken. The decision effectively closes the case, determining that the activity of public street preaching, including comments made about Islam and transgender ideology, did not constitute a criminal offence in this instance. His lawyer and Christian representatives have raised concerns over a pattern of disproportionate police response to his religious expression.
The case arises from a November 2025 incident in central Bristol during a public street preaching event (OIDAC reported). Pastor Dia Moodley was addressing themes including the concept of biological sex and transgender ideology, as well as theological comparisons between Christianity and other religions, including Islam, with brief exchanges involving members of the public. After complaints were made about his remarks, police attended and he was arrested under the Public Order Act 1986 on suspicion of offences linked to alleged incitement of religious hatred. He was later released under investigation following several hours in custody.
Avon and Somerset Police have now concluded the criminal investigation, confirming that no further action will be taken. The decision effectively closes the case, determining that the activity of public street preaching did not constitute a criminal offence in this instance.
Reacting to the conclusion of the case, he said: “This is a win for free speech, but I never should have been arrested, treated like a criminal, and investigated for months for peacefully sharing my faith in the public square.”
He also stated: “I will continue to share my faith publicly, undeterred by the police’s censorship and the threats and violence I have faced, and will stand for free speech not just for myself, but for the rights of all people in the UK.”
His lawyer, a legal counsel at ADF International highlighted the broader pattern of disproportionate police response to his religious expression, stating: “He has been repeatedly arrested, imprisoned, and told that expressing his Christian views is a criminal matter. On every occasion, he has challenged this state overreach and prevailed.”
Source: christiantoday, X
Photo: ADF International