Two climate protesters were arrested for spraying orange paint on the ancient Stonehenge monument in southern England.
Climate activists arrested for vandalising Stonehenge
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The protest, organised by the group Just Stop Oil, saw Rajan Naidu, 73, and Niamh Lynch, 21, arrested on suspicion of damaging one of the world’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The incident was quickly interrupted by bystanders who intervened to stop the activists.
The act was condemned by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who called it a “disgraceful act of vandalism,” while Labour leader Keir Starmer labelled the group “pathetic” and described the damage as “outrageous.”
According to reports, the activists used a cornstarch-based paint, which they claimed would dissolve in the rain.
Video footage released by Just Stop Oil shows Naidu spraying a vertical stone with orange paint before being restrained by bystanders.
Lynch managed to spray three stones before being stopped by another bystander.
Wiltshire Police confirmed that both individuals were arrested at the scene.
Why is Stonehenge an important historical site?
Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England, and is one of the most famous landmarks in the United Kingdom.
It consists of a ring of standing stones, each around four metres high, two metres wide, and weighing approximately 22,680 kilograms.
Archaeologists believe it was constructed between 3000 BC and 2000 BC.
The site holds significant historical and cultural importance for several reasons:
- Architectural Marvel: Stonehenge is renowned for its sophisticated stonework and the precise alignment with the solstices. The effort required to transport and erect the stones remains a topic of fascination and study.
- Historical Significance: The monument is a testament to the engineering skills of prehistoric peoples and provides insight into their rituals and social organisation.
- Cultural Heritage: Stonehenge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its outstanding universal value. It attracts thousands of visitors each year, especially during the summer solstice when people gather to witness the sunrise.
- Archaeological Importance: Numerous archaeological studies have been conducted at Stonehenge, revealing important information about Neolithic and Bronze Age cultures in Britain.
- Tourist Attraction: Stonehenge is a major tourist destination, contributing significantly to the local economy and offering educational opportunities for visitors worldwide.
