Cop Hospitalised After Brutal Sledgehammer Attack at Defence Firm
A police officer was rushed to hospital after being smashed with a sledgehammer during a violent raid at Elbit Systems’ Bristol HQ early this morning. The terrifying attack took place just before 4am at the defence tech firm on Bolingbroke Way in Patchway.
Raiders Ram Entrance, Wield Sledgehammers and Axes
According to Avon and Somerset Police, a group used a vehicle to ram the facility’s entrance before storming inside. The gang then launched a savage assault on staff and officers who tried to intervene. Six suspects aged 20 to 30 were arrested for offences including Section 18 wounding with intent, aggravated burglary, and criminal damage.
- Police seized weapons including sledgehammers, axes, whips, and homemade tools.
- Two officers were attacked with sledgehammers; one suffered back injuries and was taken to hospital but has now been discharged.
- An Elbit Systems employee was also treated for a head injury.
Campaign Group Claims Responsibility
Videos posted by Palestine Action show masked individuals cutting into the warehouse, vandalising equipment, and spraying red paint. The group claims their aim is to disrupt arms sales to Israel. Elbit Systems UK strongly denies supplying weapons to the Israeli military.
Police Condemn Assault on Officers
Superintendent Deepak Kenth slammed the attackers, calling the acts “disgraceful” and stressing these were criminal offences, not protests.
“Police officers are mums, dads, uncles, aunties, brothers and sisters, like anyone else. They wear the uniform to protect the public. They come to work and do not expect to be assaulted with weapons,” he said.
Kenth confirmed further arrests are expected as the investigation continues.
Elbit Systems Responds
A company spokesperson confirmed a security guard was injured and reiterated the facility produces vehicle training equipment for the British armed forces. They categorically denied any claims the site supplies Israel’s military or Ministry of Defence. The firm pledged full cooperation with police to bring offenders to justice.
Ongoing Police Probe
Officers continue sifting through CCTV, speaking to witnesses, and analysing the rammed vehicle used in the attack. The crime scene remains sealed off as forensic teams comb the area.
