Three arrests were made today after a van rammed into the gates of a factory in Leicester, damaging a police car and other vehicles. After breaking through the gates, protesters climbed onto the roof of the van and sprayed red powder around.

Since 2020 there have been regular protests, including break-ins, by Palestine Action at the UAV Tactical Systems factory in Meridian Way. The campaign group claims it is in response to the company supplying the Israeli governments with drones used against the Palestinian people in Gaza.

But the company, owned by Elbit Systems UK, denies supplying the Israeli military or Israeli Ministry of Defence. The van was smashed into the front gate early this morning.

READ MORE: Live Palestine Action protest updates as activists ram van into drone factory gates

Leicestershire Police said in a statement released this afternoon: "Police were called at around 7.50am today (Wednesday 18 October) to reports of a vehicle attempting to gain access to business premises in Meridian Way.

"A white van driven by protesters is believed to have breached the gate, causing criminal damage to the surrounding area and other vehicles. In particular, damage was caused to a police vehicle, private property and privately owned vehicles in the external yard area.

"Coloured smoke canisters were also used and thrown from the van. Two protesters remained on top of the vehicle until they were both arrested for public order offences and criminal damage. Another was arrested nearby."

The police arrested a 22-year-old from Wembley, in London, a 27-year-old from Manchester and a 60-year-old from Shropshire. All three are in police custody and an investigation into what happened has been launched.

The incident led to a road closure and disruption for other businesses on the industrial estate. Police will remain in the area conducting a "proactive policing plan" with extra patrols, the force said.

Detectives investigating the criminal damage have appealed for help from anyone who was driving past and might have dashcam footage from the area. Detective Chief Inspector Chris Gamble said: “No-one was injured as a result of this action but it was irresponsible none the less.

"We support the right to protest peacefully but will take immediate action against those who are seeking to commit crime and damage property. We would like to hear from anyone who witnessed these events or from anyone who may have dashcam footage prior to the incident and may have seen the white van on its approach to Meridian Way at approximately 7.45am this morning.”

To pass on information call 101 or visit www.leics.police.uk.