Two environmental activists have been charged by police in Essex after spraying private jets with orange paint at Stansted Airport. Jennifer Kowalski, 28, and Cole Macdonald, 22, have been accused of committing more than £5,000-worth of damage. The pair have been charged with criminal damage, aggravated trespass, and interfering with national infrastructure. Both individuals will appear at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Saturday.
Just Stop Oil, the environmental group behind the action, stated that they did this to make a statement after learning that Taylor Swift’s private jet had landed at the airport “mere hours before.” Activists used fire extinguishers filled with orange paint to spray two private jets. Essex Police reported that the American singer’s aircraft was not at the airport at the time of the group’s protest.
Police detained two individuals within nine minutes of receiving notice of the incident, which occurred away from the main terminus at 5:10 BST on Thursday. Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow stated that the authorities are equipped to handle such disturbances and assured the public that they are well-prepared and well-resourced. Essex Police will maintain a strong presence at the airport throughout the summer period.
The situation demonstrates the ongoing tension between those in favour of petroleum use and those who believe in moving away from it. Although the painted jets will undoubtedly bring attention to the issue, it remains to be seen if it will lead to any immediate policy changes
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