UPDATE: 13 arrested after Just Stop Oil protests at Essex fuel terminals
Just Stop Oil said it had blocked “10 critical oil facilities” this morning
Last updated 1st Apr 2022
Thirteen people have now been arrested after campaign group Just Stop Oil attempted to block fuel trucks from accessing depots in Purfleet and across Thurrock.
Just Stop Oil said it had blocked “10 critical oil facilities”, creating a “potential impact on fuel supplies for London and the South East”.
They're calling on the government to move away from its use of fossil fuels.
At the ESSO Fuel Depot on London Road, Purfleet, some protestors attached themselves to an entrance gate, and others zip-tied themselves on top of a fuel lorry.
Those arrested include:
- A 28-year-old woman and a 22-year-old man, both from Norwich.
- A 19-year-old man from Cambridge.
- An 18-year-old woman from Thurston, near Bury St Edmunds.
- A 20-year-old woman and a 22-year-old man, from unknown hometowns.
Essex Police Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Nolan said:
“We are working to minimise the disruption at Navigator Fuel Distribution Centre, Askew Farm Lane, and at a depot in London Road, Purfleet.
“I am pleased to say that we’ve worked quickly to arrest thirteen people so far for the disruption this morning, and that officers were quick to respond to any reports of further incidents across Thurrock.
“Road disruption is currently minimal, and I’d like to thank local drivers, workers and businesses for their patience whilst we continue to engage with those at the three sites.
“I want to be clear: policing is not anti-protest, but we must intervene where there is a risk to life or where laws are being broken.
“This is an extremely dangerous situation for the protestors to be in. We are being clear on the risks, and are continuing to engage with them to try and bring this to a conclusion.
“My hope is that this will be resolved safely and swiftly, so that our officers can get back to protecting and serving the people of Essex.”