Palestine Action activists used whips and hammers to threaten guards at arms factory, court hears

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Published: 2026-10-02T17:30:47.430Z • Permanent link

Five defendants accused of being part of the 'black team' tasked with overcoming security at Israel-linked firm Elbit near Bristol have used whips, hammers, and kebab skewers to threaten guards, a court has heard. Palestine Action activists brandished the objects to intimidate security personnel at the Elbit Elxiron facility, which is a major manufacturer of military technology. The incident occurred on August 28, 2022, at the facility in Avonmouth, Bristol, England. Elbit Elxiron is a subsidiary of Elbit Systems, a global defense electronics company based in Israel.

Elbit Systems has operations in several countries, including the UK, the US, and Australia, and its products are used by military forces worldwide. The company has faced criticism in the past for its involvement in the development of military technology for countries with questionable human rights records. Palestine Action, a UK-based activist group, has been critical of Elbit Systems and has targeted its facilities in the past. The group's actions have been seen as a form of direct action, aimed at disrupting the company's operations and highlighting its involvement in the military technology industry.

One of the defendants, identified as James Coyle, is accused of using a whip to threaten guards at the facility. Coyle is a well-known figure in the UK activist scene, having been involved in various protests and demonstrations over the years. He has been charged with conspiracy to commit violent disorder and is expected to appear in court later this year. The trial is expected to reveal more details about the planning and execution of the protest, and the use of violent tactics by some activists.

The use of violent tactics by Palestine Action activists has significant implications for the Data Sources domain. Companies like Elbit Systems, which are involved in the development and manufacture of military technology, are often targeted by activist groups. The use of violent tactics can disrupt operations, damage equipment, and put employees at risk. This can have a significant impact on the bottom line, as well as on the company's reputation and relationships with customers and partners.

The incident also highlights the need for companies to have robust security measures in place to protect their facilities and employees. This can include the use of CCTV cameras, alarm systems, and on-site security personnel. Companies must also be prepared to respond quickly and effectively in the event of a security breach, and to engage with law enforcement and regulatory agencies to address any issues that may arise. The incident also raises questions about the role of activist groups in the Data Sources domain, and the impact of their actions on companies and their employees.

The incident is also significant for the research community, as it highlights the need for more nuanced and contextualized research on the impact of activism on companies and their employees. Researchers must consider the broader social and economic context in which activism takes place, and the ways in which companies respond to and engage with activist groups. By doing so, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationships between companies, activist groups, and the wider social and economic environment.