News / filton
Three arrested as protesters blockade arms factory
Three people have been arrested following a demonstration at Elbit Systems UK in Filton on Thursday morning.
Members from pro-Palestine group ‘People Against Genocide’ said they aimed to “shut down” operations at the site.
Two protesters “locked on” inside one vehicle while others climbed on top of the second van to blockade the site in an attempt to “prevent business as usual,” according to the group.
The action came a day after the group staged a demonstration at the Birmingham offices of Chubb Insurance, which provides insurance for Elbit Systems UK.
The factory on Belvedere Close has been the site of multiple vigils, protests and blockades, including a raid by members of the proscribed group Palestine Action in August 2024.
Bristol24/7 have reached out to Elbit Systems UK for comment on the incident, but are yet to receive a response.
Members of ‘People Against Genocide’ held a protest at the Israeli-owned defence company in Filton
A spokesperson from ‘People Against Genocide’ said: “Yesterday we were in Birmingham, hitting Elbit’s insurer.
“Today, we strike at them directly, by shutting down their key facility at Filton, Bristol.
“While the genocide of the Palestinians continues, we will not rest in terms of targeting the British-based companies and facilities, who contribute to these war crimes.
“Elbit, it is time to go!”
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Avon and Somerset Police told Bristol24/7 that the arrests were the result of ongoing disruption.
A spokesperson said: “Officers have responded to a protest in Patchway [on Thursday].
“Shortly before 7am we received a report of two vehicles blocking access to a business site.
“Officers this morning sought to engage with the protesters as part of their duty to enable peaceful protest.
“A decision was made at about 10am, with the protest ongoing and causing disruption, to arrest three people for offences relating to locking on, contrary to the Public Order Act 2003.
“Specialist officers are in the process of removing the three individuals, ahead of transporting them to custody.”
All photos: Mark Simmons
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