Today, I witnessed six activists appear in Westminster Magistrates’ Court following a series of arrests last Friday, related to direct action against an Elbit Systems drones factory in Leicester.
The factory is responsible for manufacturing key parts for UAV Tactical Systems, which make up 85% of all drones and land-based military equipment used in the ongoing assault on innocent people in Palestine.
Judge grants extra time request
At the start of the first hearing, we listened as lawyers requested additional time to consult with the activists. They contended that they weren’t given enough. The judge granted the request, rescheduling the hearing for 2 pm.
We returned to the hearing and the activists entered the courtroom, seemingly calm and composed. Everyone walked in smiling, as loved ones took up seats in the public gallery.
‘Not guilty’ pleas
The six activists, all of whom are members of ‘People Against Genocide,’ pleaded ‘not guilty’ to all charges, which included criminal damage and burglary. A separate allegation was made against Pete Jones, who is accused of driving a van into the factory gates to gain access.
Elbit Systems has reportedly stated that the damage caused amounts to over GBP 250,000, at minimum, although this has yet to be publicly confirmed.
At the start, a representative attempted to convince the courts that the activists should not be granted bail, arguing that their past activism and social media posts indicated they might attempt similar actions again.
Judge Snow listened as each lawyer presented their arguments, including points on the activists’ personal circumstances, their community involvement, and caregiving responsibilities. The court also discussed the conditions for granting bail.
Four out of six activists granted bail
Judge Snow then granted bail to four of the six activists—Rhae Rivers, Hal Hockney, Megan Kennard, and Pete Jones—under strict conditions, which included wearing a tag and staying at least 200 meters away from any Elbit Systems factory or premises.
Unfortunately, he denied bail to the other two activists due to other circumstances and cases that we are not permitted to report on at the time of writing.
BREAKING: Four of the six action takers which occupied the roof and abseiled into Elbit’s weapons factory in Leicester, have been released.
Two of them were remanded to prison, due to other outstanding charges.
They shut Elbit down and halted the production of Israeli drones. pic.twitter.com/4PC6wASqrj
— The Aftershock (@The_Aftershock_) April 27, 2026
As the hearing concluded, the gallery erupted in cheers, celebrating their immense pride in the activists. Some supporters shed tears as they stood by their loved ones in the gallery.
After leaving the court, speeches were made urging continued direct action. The pressure on these systems cannot die down, and everyone must keep fighting to support those who cannot.
The next court date is set for 15th may 2026.
Featured image via Sip the System
From Canary via This RSS Feed.