An Oxford University student from Kent who was recorded chanting “put the Zios in the ground” is the subject of a police investigation.

Samuel Williams, from Tunbridge Wells, has also been suspended by the prestigious institution where he was studying philosophy, politics, and economics (PPE).

The former Bennett Memorial School student was captured on camera leading chants at the PSC National Demonstration for Palestine in London on Saturday (Oct 11).

Addressing pro-Palestine activists, Mr Williams praised the “noble resistance in Palestine and in Gaza”.

“I don’t want to yap for too long,” he said. “But a chant that we’ve been workshopping in Oxford that maybe you guys want to join in.

“It goes: Gaza, Gaza make us proud, put the Zios in the ground.”

Zio is the shortened version of the word Zionist – a supporter of Zionism; a person who believes in the development and protection of a Jewish nation in what is now Israel – which some believe is used as a coded attack on Jews.

We are horrified by the footage of a University of Oxford student chanting to "put the Zios in the ground”

Pictures published by the outlet, taken from Mr Williams Instagram page, show the student regularly wearing a red and white keffiyeh scarf – an Arabic accessory which has become associated with the pro-Palestine movement.

The Tunbridge Wells student’s former school strongly criticised Mr Williams' actions.

A spokesman said: “Bennett Memorial School is unequivocal in condemning, in the strongest possible terms, any language urging violence against groups of people or expressing any form of racial hatred.

“This is entirely contrary to the values of our school and our focus, for every student, on the formation of academic and character excellence.

“Our values of hope, wisdom and love reflect our firm commitment to protecting and recognising the innate dignity of all in our school community and beyond.

“Our disciplinary policies and procedures make clear that keeping all safe and knowing they are valued and belong is of paramount importance.

“As such, there is no place for harassment and discrimination. Consequently, any form of antisemitic behaviour by current students would be considered and managed in accordance with those policies and procedures.”

A University of Oxford spokesman added: “The University of Oxford condemns, in the strongest possible terms, any language urging violence against groups of people or expressing any form of racial hatred.

“The University's support for freedom of speech does not extend to any statements including such language.

“When such language is reported, we will always want to speak to the student concerned, and consider the matter under our disciplinary procedures in line with University and college policies.

“Oxford is unequivocal: there is no place for antisemitism, harassment, or discrimination within our community. We remain firmly committed to protecting the safety and dignity of all our students and staff.”

While a spokesman for the Union of Jewish students added: “We are horrified by the footage of a University of Oxford student chanting to "put the Zios in the ground".

“Against the backdrop of rampant glorification of Hamas terrorism on campus this week, we call on universities to urgently take a stand against the endorsement of violence.

“We are in contact with the University of Oxford and urge them to act decisively in response to this deeply troubling incident.”