Pro-Palestinian Activists on Trial for Violent Break-In at UK Defense Firm

Six members of the pro-Palestinian group Palestine Action are currently on trial in London, facing charges related to a break-in at Elbit Systems' facility in Bristol on August 6, 2024. The defendants—Charlotte Head, 29; Samuel Corner, 23; Leona Kamio, 30; Fatema Rajwani, 21; Zoe Rogers, 22; and Jordan Devlin, 31—are accused of aggravated burglary, criminal damage, and violent disorder.

Prosecutors allege that the group used a repurposed prison van to breach the facility's perimeter before causing extensive damage to equipment inside. The incident resulted in approximately £1 million in damages.

During the break-in, police officers responded to the scene. PC Aaron Buxton testified that while restraining one of the activists, another approached wielding a sledgehammer. Buxton stated, "As he has reached us he has swung the sledgehammer multiple times towards me." He reported experiencing considerable pain and bruising on his leg.

PS Kate Evans recounted being struck in the back with a sledgehammer while attempting to arrest another suspect. She described the impact as a "massive shock vibrating through my whole back." Evans suffered a spinal fracture and was unable to work for three months.

The trial is ongoing, with the defendants denying all charges. Palestine Action, formed in 2020, has previously targeted Elbit Systems' UK sites, alleging the company supplies weapons used against Palestinians. In July 2025, the UK government designated Palestine Action as a terrorist organization, making membership or support a criminal offense.