UK pro-Palestinian activists not guilty of aggravated burglary | News
Six British activists have been acquitted of aggravated burglary following a raid on a factory operated by Israeli defence firm Elbit Systems. The incident occurred in Bristol, southwest England, in August of last year and involved members of Palestine Action, a now-banned group. A jury at London’s Woolwich Crown Court was unable to reach verdicts on charges of criminal damage related to the same event.
The Case and the Charges
The six defendants – Charlotte Head, 29. Samuel Corner, 23; Leona Kamio, 30; Fatema Zainab Rajwani, 21; Zoe Rogers, 22; and Jordan Devlin, 31 – all denied charges of aggravated burglary, violent disorder, and criminal damage. Prosecutors stated the group used a former prison van to enter the factory, employing fireworks and smoke grenades. They further alleged that those involved caused “extensive damage” by smashing equipment and spraying paint.
Rajwani, Rogers, and Devlin were found not guilty of violent disorder. However, the jury could not reach a verdict on the same charge for Head, Corner, and Kamio after over 36 and a half hours of deliberation. A verdict was also not reached on charges of criminal damage against all six, nor on a charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent against Corner, who allegedly struck a police sergeant with a sledgehammer.
Potential Next Steps and Broader Context
While acquitted of aggravated burglary, the six defendants could face a retrial on the counts where the jury failed to reach a verdict. Prosecutor Deanna Heer indicated her team would consider seeking such a retrial. The prosecution argued the group entered the site “with the intent to use violence,” but the defence successfully argued the tools used – including sledgehammers – were intended to disarm weapons and “prevent violence.”
The prosecution of these activists has drawn international scrutiny and been described as a test case for the British government’s approach to pro-Palestine demonstrations. Some residents and rights groups have accused authorities of heavy-handedness. Palestine Action has been critical of the UK government, accusing it of complicity in what they describe as Israeli war crimes in Gaza and a commitment to ending what they call Israel’s “genocidal and apartheid regime.”
Shifting Contracts and Activist Pressure
Recent developments suggest potential consequences for Elbit Systems. Reports indicate the British government has decided against awarding the company a 2-billion-pound army training contract. The contract is reportedly going to Raytheon UK, a US defence firm that also has deals with the Israeli military. Prisoners for Palestine, a group supporting those linked to Palestine Action, claims activist campaigning – including hunger strikes – contributed to this decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Palestine Action?
Palestine Action describes itself as a pro-Palestinian organisation that disrupts the arms industry in the United Kingdom through direct action. The group has been banned by the UK government.
What role does Elbit Systems play in this case?
Elbit Systems is an Israeli defence firm with 16 sites in the UK. Palestine Action has specifically targeted Elbit Systems, seeking to shut down its operations. The company’s drones are described as “the backbone” of Israel’s fleet.
Could the defendants face further legal proceedings?
Yes, the defendants could face a retrial on the charges of violent disorder and criminal damage, as the jury was unable to reach a verdict on those counts. The prosecution team is considering whether to pursue a retrial.
Given the complexities of this case and the ongoing debate surrounding protests targeting the arms industry, what role should direct action play in influencing government policy?