Full Breakdown
Trial of Palestine Action Activists for Alleged Attack on Elbit Systems Factory
11/25/2025, 4:09:06 AM
Incident Overview
On August 6, 2023, six members of the activist group Palestine Action were charged following an alleged organized break-in at the Elbit Systems factory in Bristol, UK. The group is accused of executing a "meticulously organised" attack, which included using a prison van to breach security and employing sledgehammers against security personnel and police officers. The accused individuals—Charlotte Head, Samuel Corner, Leona Kamio, Fatema Rajwani, Zoe Rogers, and Jordan Devlin—deny charges of aggravated burglary, criminal damage, and violent disorder.
Details of the Attack
During the trial at Woolwich Crown Court, security guard Angelo Volante provided testimony regarding the events of that day. He described a chaotic scene where the activists, dressed in red jumpsuits and armed with sledgehammers, advanced towards him while using pyrotechnics. Volante stated that he was "whipped" by Head during the confrontation, a claim that was contested by her lawyer. He also recounted a moment where Zoe Rogers swung a sledgehammer in his direction, asserting that it made contact, albeit not a direct hit.
Another security guard, Patrick Luke, corroborated the violent nature of the incident, noting that a woman swung a sledgehammer aggressively towards him, narrowly missing his chest. Additionally, police sergeant Kate Evans reported being struck twice in the back by Corner during the altercation.
Security Response Protocol
Volante explained that Elbit security guards are trained to intervene in such situations while simultaneously calling the police. He emphasized their role in managing incidents to prevent further violence and damage. The court was shown footage of Volante attempting to mitigate the situation by shouting at the activists and confiscating an angle grinder during the chaos.
Criticism & Opposition
The actions of Palestine Action have drawn significant attention and criticism. Opponents argue that the group's tactics undermine legitimate protest and escalate violence. The trial has sparked debate about the methods used by activist groups in their campaigns against companies like Elbit Systems, which is known for its defense contracts.
Verbatim Quotes
- “large group advancing towards us while using pyrotechnics and fireworks to threaten us” — Angelo Volante, Security Guard
- “If you swing that once more it's going to get really serious.” — Angelo Volante, Security Guard
- “We're there to contain and manage the incident and to intervene to stop criminal damage, threat to life, threat to injury," he added.” — Angelo Volante, Security Guard
What's Next
The trial is expected to continue until January 2024, with further testimonies and evidence to be presented. The outcome may have implications for the tactics employed by activist groups in the UK and their legal ramifications.
