Animal Rebellion protesters have caused chaos at Müllers’ Stonehouse factory, this morning, Sunday.
In a country-wide movement, more than 100 supporters of Animal Rebellion have disrupted the supply of fresh dairy across large areas of England.
A spokesperson for Gloucestershire Constabulary said: “Police are currently at a site, which remains operational, near Stonehouse where a protest attributed to an animal rights group is taking place.
“Gloucestershire Constabulary upholds the right of individuals to protest in a peaceful manner, but will take action against anyone who commits any unlawful act against either people or property.
“Officers would like to reassure residents that they have sufficient resources available to deal with any incidents which may arise from these events, and they are responding to maintain law and order in the community.
“Earlier this morning (Sunday), police seized equipment designed to cause serious disruption and five people have now been arrested, who remain in custody at this time.
“Officers are continuing to engage with the protesters and enforce the law, where proportionate, lawful and necessary to do so.
“Gloucestershire Constabulary would further like to urge anyone taking part in the protest to do so peacefully and with respect for the law and the rights of other people.”
In Oldends Lane, Stonehouse, Animal Rebellion supporters stopped and climbed onto company trucks, whilst others climbed milk silos and the site’s loading bays.
The action comes as part of Animal Rebellion’s demands for a plant-based future.
The animal and climate group is urging wholesale governmental support for farmers and fishing communities to transition to a plant-based food system and programme of rewilding that will secure a future for generations to come.
Animal Rebellion describes itself as ‘a mass movement using nonviolent civil disobedience to call for a just, sustainable plant-based food system’.
A spokesperson for Müller UK & Ireland said: “We are disappointed to be targeted by a small number of activists who don’t represent the 96 per cent of adults in Britain who choose milk every week, and we will ensure that supplies are maintained.
“Dairy is affordable and packed with nutrients that benefit our bodies. During a cost of living crisis it is wrong to try to prevent it from reaching families, including vulnerable members of society.”
