A group of protesters, organized by Palestine Action, occupied the site of Leonardo UK’s Southampton factory in Millbrook. The protest was in response to the Italian defense technology firm’s alleged ties with Israel. Two individuals, a 68-year-old woman from Norwich and a 28-year-old man from Cambridge, were arrested on suspicion of aggravated trespass and criminal damage. The details on a second man arrested have not been released.
The protesters caused damage to the roof of the building, leading to an assessment of the damage. The police were called to the scene to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of those involved, as well as communicate with the owners of the premises. While everyone has the right to free speech and peaceful protest, necessary action will be taken against those who act outside the law, according to a police spokesman. Firefighters and paramedics were also present at the scene to support the police.
The Palestine Action group released a statement saying that they had shut down production at the site and intended to sustain their occupation of the arms factory for as long as possible to disrupt the arms industry that supplies Israel. Leonardo UK’s Southampton factory houses around 400 staff and manufactures Infrared detectors and Thermal Imaging sensors which are used to support military, security, and civil clients. The firm has been contacted for comment.
The protest at Leonardo UK’s Southampton factory in Millbrook was organized by Palestine Action in response to the firm’s alleged ties with Israel. Police were called to the scene and two individuals were arrested on suspicion of aggravated trespass and criminal damage. The group released a statement saying they would sustain their occupation of the arms factory to disrupt the arms industry. Leonardo UK’s Southampton factory manufactures products that support military, security, and civil clients and houses around 400 staff. The extent of the damage caused by the protesters is still being assessed and the firm has been contacted for comment.
