Eight Just Stop Oil Protesters Arrested at Gatwick Airport

Eight activists from the Just Stop Oil group were arrested at Gatwick Airport following a demonstration involving suitcases equipped with lock-on devices. The protest occurred around 8 am at the airport's southern terminal, where seven activists blocked an entrance, prompting a swift response from authorities. A spokesperson for London Gatwick confirmed that the airport remained operational despite the protest, stating that a small number of demonstrators had been arrested and were being removed. Sussex Police reported that the eight individuals were detained on suspicion of interfering with public infrastructure, and a heightened police presence was established in the area. Video footage shared by Just Stop Oil depicted travelers stepping over the activists, who were secured to the ground with their hands in the lock-on devices. The protest group emphasized that their actions were a response to the lack of decisive political action on climate change. In a statement, Just Stop Oil highlighted their commitment to generating political pressure through civil resistance, particularly in light of recent reports indicating record-high global temperatures. The Gatwick protest is part of a broader international campaign called Oil Kills, which has seen 21 groups across 12 countries demonstrate at 17 airports. This campaign coincides with the group's ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the climate crisis, following the recent conviction of two activists for vandalizing a Van Gogh painting.