Actionists vow to continue campaign against Elbit following latest protest

Activists from Palestine Action took over the roof and broke into the inside of Elbit's factory in Waterhead again yesterday (Tuesday).

Bristol's HQ was targeted at exactly the same time, grinding its arms production to a halt in both the north and the southwest of the country.

This is the first time activists have taken over the inside of Elbit, as they occupied Oldham's site completely from top to bottom.  

Activists sprayed computers in blood-red paint, decorated both buildings' exteriors, broken windows, chained themselves to the premises and stuck "war crime scene" barrier tape across the front doors.

Banners hung from the roof, saying 'Elbit's arms: Tested on Palestine, Used in Kashmir'.

This latest escalation by the group, targeting two key sites at the same time, follows a string of disruptions, closures and damage to factories.

Having only launched last summer, Palestine Action has collectively forced Elbit's sites to close for several weeks at a time.

It is said that they have already cost the firm and its associated companies over £2 million in losses.

Arms company Elbit bought the formerly British-owned Ferranti Technologies site for £15 million in 2007.
"Elbit is profiting directly from the continual surveillance, control and violent repression of the Palestinian people," said one of the activists.

"We demand that it stops operating and that the UK cuts all ties with Elbit Ferranti.

"We don’t want this company on our doorstep."

"Elbit has absolutely no place in any civilised society and their existence is an utter stain on the UK," say Palestine Action.

""All those in positions of power who facilitate or invest in their industry, or turn a blind eye to their murderous technology, should hang their heads in shame."

Palestine Actionists have vowed to continue the campaign against Elbit until it is shut down for good. 

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said officers at the scene had "engaged with" the protesters.

It has been reported that two arrests were made.

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