Arrests made in Essex as oil campaigners reportedly block terminals

The group are reportedly causing disruption in a number of areas

Protestors in Thurrock
Author: PA ReporterPublished 1st Apr 2022
Last updated 1st Apr 2022

Campaign group Just Stop Oil says it has blocked “10 critical oil facilities”, creating a “potential impact on fuel supplies for London and the South East”.

Police are responding to reports of disruption across the country.

WATCH: Campaigners tell Greatest Hits Radio why they've come out in force today:

Essex Police have confirmed at least six people have been arrested so far, although Greatest Hits Radio understands that number may be higher now.

Officers said earlier that they're dealing with three incidents in Thurrock, where groups of people are reportedly blocking the roads.

Officers were called to the Navigator Fuel Distribution Centre at 3.50am, a call then followed soon afterwards to a similar situation on Askew Farm Lane.

The force says police are now responding to reports from a depot on London Road in Purfleet.

Drivers are being asked to avoid the area.

Demonstrations are expected across the country in the coming days over the cost-of-living crisis.

The People’s Assembly has said it expects thousands of protesters will take to the streets on Saturday at locations throughout the UK to highlight those suffering “real hardships” due to the combination of rising fuel and food prices, inflation, and low pay.

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