Three arrests made as Palestine Action promises more action against Allianz

Palestine Action has threatened to continue its protests against Allianz as police made several arrests following the occupation of the insurer’s Guildford office.

Protestors targeted the site in Ladymead yesterday (8 October 2024), with three people climbing onto a glass canopy above the main entrance to the building.

Surrey Police said specialist officers who are trained in the removal of protestors at height were dispatched.

A man and two women were arrested on suspicion of aggravated trespass and criminal damage. Enquiries remain ongoing.

Warning

The Guildford site was among 10 other Allianz offices targeted by Palestine Action, with pictures showing windows smashed, Palestinian flags hung and red paint sprayed across facades.

The vandalism coincides with the first anniversary of the start of the Gaza conflict, triggered by the Hamas-led attack on Israel on 7 October 2023.

Palestine Action said it was protesting over Allianz’s alleged involvement with Israeli weapons firm Elbit Systems.

The group said: “We have not had an adequate response from Allianz.

“The 10 actions are just the beginning of our campaign against Allianz, which will swiftly end once we receive confirmation that they will no longer provide insurance for, or invest in, Israel’s biggest weapons producer Elbit Systems.

“We invite Allianz to announce the end of their ties with Elbit Systems. Until then, we will continue our actions against the firm.”

Following yesterday’s protest, Allianz said that the “safety and security of our colleagues is paramount” and that several offices had been closed as a result.

An Allianz spokesperson said: “We have had disruption overnight at several of our offices. The safety and security of our colleagues is paramount and we have closed these sites today.

“Our operations and service to customers and clients are unaffected.”