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THE ACTION
Oxford peace activists Toby Olditch and Philip Pritchard
entered and attempted to disarm USAF B-52 bombers at RAF Fairford, early
on 18th March 2003. Their decision to take this peaceful direct action was
a response to absolute frustration; that all previous international pressure
and efforts to prevent the prosecution of an illegal and unjustified war
had come to nothing. Toby said: "Each of us has a responsibility to take
action against the move towards an illegal attack on Iraq. We only have
hours left in which to prevent this humanitarian disaster."
Aware of the vital role of the B52 heavy bombers in any attack, and their
legacy of massive civilian casualties in several conflicts, Philip and Toby
determined to disable them safely. They struck just two days before the
planes went into action. Phil said: "These planes are weapons of mass destruction.
It's up to us to prevent them from being used to kill innocent people in
Iraq. This war is illegal and morally unacceptable." Arrested before reaching
the planes, the 'B-52 two' were peaceful and fully accountable for their
actions. They carried whistles and flashing lights to draw attention to
themselves had they completed the disarmament, and 'Caution: this plane
is grounded' signs. They carried paint, nuts and bolts to disable the engines
and hammers to beat upon the fuselage. On the perimeter fence they posted
photos of Gulf War Iraqi victims, labelled 'Collateral damage?', and planted
peace poppies.
The B52 Two are due to stand trial on 14th May 2007. This is the second trial for the alleged offence; the first in October 2006 ended in a hung jury. Read more about the events leading to a retrial, the legal defence and the trial process in the latest press briefing.