Pro-Palestine protestors broke into the Instro Precision factory at Sandwich Discovery Park in Kent (United Kingdom) early this morning. The activists, part of the group Palestine Action, accessed the building after cutting through three security fences. Video footage shows individuals wearing orange jumpsuits vandalizing computers and equipment. The group claimed they were targeting technology used in manufacturing weapons of war to prevent arms exports to Gaza.
BREAKING: Actionists cut through 3 security fences to get inside Elbit’s ‘highly secure’ compound and break into Kent’s Israeli weapons factory.
Once inside, they begun dismantling machinery, technology and parts used to arm the Gaza genocide. pic.twitter.com/5yyQXJYbiA [1]
— Palestine Action (@Pal_action) June 17, 2024 [2]
BREAKING: Palestine Action set up camp outside Elbit’s drone engine factory in Shenstone
We’ll be a daily reminder that it’s the beginning of the end for the Israeli weapons maker
Join us opposite UAV Engines Ltd, Lynn Lane, WS14 0DT pic.twitter.com/iGzFdyZr5w [3]
— Palestine Action (@Pal_action) June 17, 2024 [4]
Instro Precision [5] manufactures military-grade electro-optical equipment and is believed to be a major exporter to Israel. The group alleges that the company’s products are likely used in ground operations in Gaza. Over the past five years, the firm has reportedly obtained more than 50 export licenses for its weapons sights and target acquisition products.
Seven individuals were arrested by Kent Police on suspicion of aggravated burglary following the incident. The police confirmed the arrests and stated that an investigation is ongoing.
“Officers are currently at the scene and seven people have been arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary… They have been taken into custody and an investigation into the incident is under way.” – Kent Police