Another 40 arrests after protests at oil depots

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Activists from Just Stop Oil block an entrance to a fuel terminal during a protest in Grays.Image source, Reuters
Image caption,

Activists climbed on to the top of oil tankers at a fuel terminal in Grays, Essex

Police have arrested 40 more people after climate change protests at three oil terminals.

Essex Police said 28 were detained at the Navigator depot in Thurrock and the Grays oil terminal.

Warwickshire Police confirmed another 12 arrests at the Kingsbury depot near Tamworth.

People in orange hi-vis jackets were seen on top of oil tankers, holding "Just Stop Oil" signs, a group affiliated with Extinction Rebellion.

They have been demanding that the government stop new oil and gas projects.

Image source, PA Media
Image caption,

Protesters from Just Stop Oil have been demonstrating in Kingsbury since April (archive image)

Demonstrators have been trying to obstruct the entrance at the site near Tamworth since 1 April and up to 29 were arrested after a protest there last weekend.

Warwickshire Police said: "Officers remain at Kingsbury Oil Terminal today and are currently dealing with protest activity after a number of protesters arrived overnight.

"While we will always recognise and respect the public's right to peaceful protest we will take action against anyone who breaks the law or causes significant impact on the community."

Essex Police confirmed the total number of arrests to date stood at 454 and that officers remained in Thurrock where a small number of protestors remained.

Assistant Chief Constable Glen Pavelin said: "Our dedicated officers will continue to work across the weekend to keep Essex moving, keep people safe and minimise disruption to the public.

"As demonstrated this week, if you come to Essex and engage in disruptive and dangerous protest, we will arrest you."

Image source, Reuters
Image caption,

Activists targeted the Grays oil terminal on Friday morning.

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