The Save Omar group want to thank The Argus for mounting its campaign, Justice for Omar, and the journalists who took time to gather up the details of Omar Deghayes' detention as well as the many readers of The Argus who followed his story, often taking action themselves by writing letters, sending postcards and signing petitions.

There is no doubt that these efforts secured his return to the safety of his family.

Now home, we hope that Omar will also be welcomed back into our wider local community. We know that Guantanamo Bay can cast a long shadow. The jail, which should properly be called an internment camp, creates and maintains suspicion without any recall to proof of a crime, military involvement, political or religious affiliation.

Proof has never mattered to the US officials that run Guantanamo Bay since they do not need it to spread suspicion or fear. Just putting people in there is enough. Omar's release is a victory of justice over suspicion as well as common sense over fear. The upside down world of being pronounced guilty before being charged, imprisoned without any trial should be well and truly over for Omar now.

Goodbye, Guantanamo. Welcome to Brighton.

  • Louise Purbrick, Save Omar, Luther Street, Brighton