Police arrested five people on Friday during a pro-Palestinian protest at SEC Plating, a company based in Sydney. The protesters targeted the firm for its reported role in supplying components used in F-35 fighter jets operated by Israel.
According to the New South Wales Greens, SEC Plating provides plating services for various jet parts. The party raised concerns about Australia’s contribution to the global supply chain that supports Israel’s fleet of around 40 F-35 jets.
Officers said about 60 demonstrators attempted to block pedestrian access to the business. Police ordered them to move on. However, five people were taken into custody for failing to comply and for trying to flee.
Authorities released all five on conditional bail. They are due to appear at Bankstown Local Court on 15 July.
One of the protesters, 35-year-old Hannah Thomas, suffered a serious eye injury during her arrest. Police confirmed she received treatment at Bankstown Hospital. Images shared online showed her with a swollen, bloodied eye. Reports suggest she may lose vision in the affected eye.
Sue Higginson, a Greens MP and justice spokesperson in New South Wales, criticised the police response. She described the officers’ actions as “brutal and excessive” and questioned whether their conduct was lawful. According to her, the group had exercised its right to peaceful assembly.
