Six Palestine Action activists are currently facing a retrial at Woolwich Crown Court in London, charged with criminal damage and assault related to an incident at an Israeli-linked arms factory. The defendants, identified as Jordan Devlin, Charlotte Head, Samuel Corner, Leona Kamio, Fatema Rajwani, and Zoe Rogers, allegedly targeted the Elbit Systems facility in Filton, near Bristol, on August 6 last year.
Prosecution Details the Alleged Attack
Prosecutor Deanna Heer KC outlined the case, stating that the activists intended to cause maximum destruction before police intervention. According to Heer, the group used sledgehammers and crowbars to smash drones and computers, with tools weighing approximately 7lb (3.2kg) each. The prosecution claims that the defendants planned to "shut Elbit down" as part of their primary objective, as indicated in planning documents found on an encrypted website.
Violent Confrontation with Police
The court heard that during the early morning raid, a van crashed through the factory fence, followed by activists in black jumpsuits creating a diversion with smoke grenades and flares. Once inside, the defendants, wearing red jumpsuits, not only damaged property but also sprayed red paint from fire extinguishers. When police arrived, a confrontation ensued, with Samuel Corner allegedly assaulting officers. He is accused of striking Sergeant Kate Evans twice with a sledgehammer, causing a fractured spine that left her unable to work for three months and confined to restricted duties.
Charges and Denials
All six activists deny the charges of criminal damage, while Corner additionally faces a charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. The trial continues as the jury examines evidence, including witness testimonies and digital planning documents that suggest the group aimed to overwhelm security and continue their actions "louder, angrier and more determined" if obstructed.
