TEN people are facing trial accused of causing damage worth £1 million at a factory in Kent allegedly targeted by protest group Palestine Action.

Activists allegedly filmed themselves breaking into Instro Precision in Sandwich in the early hours of June 17 last year, throwing stock to the ground and smashing computers with a crowbar.

Palestine Action has said it targeted Instro Precision as it manufactures and exports military equipment to Israel which is used to commit genocide in Gaza.

Ten defendants appeared at the Old Bailey today charged with causing criminal damage to property, aggravated burglary with intent and violent disorder.

It is alleged that, on June 17 2024, they “without lawful excuse destroyed or damaged property to a value estimated to be over £1m belonging to Instro Precision Limited.”

Last June 6, it is further alleged, they “threatened unlawful violence” that would “cause a person of reasonable firmness present at the scene to fear for his or her personal safety.”

During the hearing, Ms Justice Cheema-Grubb scheduled a plea hearing for September 26 and an eight-week trial to start on October 5 2026 at the Old Bailey.