Kent Police have arrested several people after violent scuffles broke out during a protest at the Instro Precision factory in Sandwich.
Officers and demonstrators clashed in “ugly scenes” at the Discovery Park business estate. The protest was led by the group Palestine Action. They intended to shut down the facility because they claim it makes parts for the Israeli military.
This event is the latest in a long-running campaign against the site. People watching the scene saw physical fights as police tried to clear the crowd and keep the industrial park open.
Violence erupts at Discovery Park
The mood turned sour early in the morning. Activists tried to block the site entrances to stop work. Some wore masks and orange jumpsuits, while others held signs and shouted anti-arms trade slogans.
A large number of police officers arrived to keep order. As time passed, the situation became physical. Video shows officers grappling with protesters to clear the road. They were trying to make sure employees could get into the building safely.
A Kent Police spokesperson said the force arrived around 03:30. “Officers are currently at the scene and seven people have been arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary,” the police confirmed.
Break-in and property damage
Beyond the fighting outside, there were reports of heavy damage inside the factory. Activists reportedly broke in using crowbars to smash through windows and destroy electronics.
Once inside, they threw stock onto the floor. They also covered walls in red paint to represent blood. Palestine Action said their members “immobilised” the factory’s ability to produce equipment.
Protesters also used “stingers” – rows of metal spikes – to block vehicles from the gates. This made it much harder for police to respond quickly during the early hours.
The row over Instro Precision
Instro Precision belongs to Elbit Systems, which is the largest private defence firm in Israel. This specific factory in Kent makes high-tech military gear, such as target systems and night vision tools.
What the activists say
Campaigners believe the gear made in Kent is being used by the Israeli military. They argue that the UK is part of international law violations by allowing the factory to stay open.
“We will not allow companies on our doorstep to profit from what we see as mass murder,” a group representative said. They have promised to keep using “direct action” until the factory is forced to leave the park.
The factory’s position
Instro Precision says it follows all UK export laws. They insist their work is essential for the British Army and its allies.
A company spokesperson said: “This facility is designed to meet the requirements of the UK armed forces.” They added that they provide the British Army with vital night vision systems and will work with police to prosecute anyone threatening their staff.
Legal and local consequences
The constant protests in Sandwich have triggered a much tougher response from the law. Some people arrested at the site are now being investigated under the Serious Crime Act.
Some legal experts worry this strategy hurts the right to protest. However, the Home Office maintains that while peaceful protest is legal, “criminal activity” will be stopped.
Local disruption
The protests have upset many other businesses at Discovery Park. Residents have different opinions on the matter. Some agree with the cause, but others are tired of the road blocks and the heavy police presence.
Police stayed at the site on Tuesday to stop more break-ins. The seven people arrested remain in custody. Detectives are still looking into the claims of aggravated burglary and damage.
