Two Arrested for Spraying Orange Substance on UNESCO World Heritage Site Stonehenge in UK
In a bold and controversial act of protest, two climate activists were arrested for spraying an orange substance on the iconic Stonehenge monument in southern England.
The incident, orchestrated by the climate action group Just Stop Oil, has ignited a storm of condemnation from various quarters, including political leaders and heritage conservationists.
The Wiltshire Police confirmed the arrest of the two individuals, who were apprehended on suspicion of damaging the prehistoric monument.
The swift intervention by bystanders, who reportedly stepped in to stop the protesters, underscores the public's protective stance towards the revered site.
The protesters' act was particularly audacious, occurring just a day before the annual summer solstice gathering at Stonehenge.
🚨 BREAKING: Just Stop Oil Spray Stonehenge Orange
— Just Stop Oil (@JustStop_Oil) June 19, 2024
🔥 2 people took action the day before Summer Solstice, demanding the incoming government sign up to a legally binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030.
🧯 Help us take megalithic action — https://t.co/R20S8YQD1j pic.twitter.com/ufzO8ZiDWu
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Keir Starmer were quick to denounce the act.
Sunak described it as a "disgraceful act of vandalism," while Starmer called the group "pathetic" and labeled the damage as "outrageous."
Their strong reactions reflect the widespread disapproval of targeting a monument that holds significant cultural and historical value.
English Heritage, the organization responsible for managing Stonehenge, expressed deep distress over the incident.
They reassured the public that curators are actively investigating the damage.
The group also emphasized the emotional impact such acts have on those dedicated to preserving the site for future generations.
Just Stop Oil, on the other hand, defended their actions on social media, stating that the paint used was made of cornstarch and would dissolve in the rain.
This justification, however, did little to quell the backlash from both the public and authorities, who view the defacement of a UNESCO World Heritage Site as an unacceptable method of protest.
As the summer solstice approaches, thousands are expected to gather at Stonehenge to celebrate the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere.
This incident casts a shadow over the festivities, serving as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions between climate activism and heritage conservation.
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