Eight people arrested after Mountain Highway, Bayswater factory pro-Palestine protest

Police have charged eight people who allegedly climbed onto a Bayswater factory that makes parts used by Israel’s military.

Police are negotiating with eight people who have climbed up the roofs of businesses in Bayswater on Monday. Photo: supplied

Pro-Palestine protesters who allegedly climbed on the roof of an aerospace manufacturer that makes parts for Israel’s military have been charged.

On Monday morning, police attended the scene after eight people allegedly scaled the roof of Rosebank Engineering on Mountain Hwy, Bayswater.

Police allege the group gained access to the business about 6am and climbed onto the roof, hanging signs and spray painting messages.

The protesters allegedly demanded the aircraft manufacturer cease making parts of the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter for Israel.

On late Monday afternoon, the group made contact with police and advised they were ready to come down.

Officers organised a cherry picker to ensure they were brought down safely.

Police charged all 8 alleged protesters which included a 62-year-old woman and 36-year-old from Carlton, a 28-year-old Brunswick West woman, a 27-year-old Thornbury woman, a 26-year-old Fitzroy man, a 52-year-old Ocean Shores (New South Wales) woman, a 27-year-old Eltham woman, and a 32-year-old Hadfield woman.

All were charged with criminal damage, trespass, and being disguised with unlawful intent.

The group were released on bail and expected to face Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on July 11.

Rosebank Engineering was contacted for comment.