Police have released a statement after protesters from a pro-Palestinian group climbed on the roof of a defence firm factory in Southampton.

Three Palestine Action campaigners broke into Leonardo UK's factory in First Avenue, Millbrook this morning in an attempt to disrupt work at the site.

They were filmed using sledgehammers to damage equipment on the roof.

The action relates to the Israel-Hamas war and the bombing of Gaza by the Israeli military, which Palestine Action claims Leonardo UK is supporting through "the sale of weapons".

In a statement, a Palestine Action spokesperson said: "Early on Thursday morning, Palestine Action scaled the Leonardo UK weapons factory in Southampton and occupied the rooftop, shutting down production at the site.

"Activists are now in a prime position and have begun dismantling the building."

Leonardo UK's Southampton site houses around 400 staff.

It manufactures InfraRed (IR) detectors and Thermal Imaging (TI) sensors which the firm says play "a crucial role in supporting military, security and civil clients".

Police have been at the scene for more than four hours alongside paramedics and firefighters.

Police statement in full

A police spokesperson said: “We were called at 6.55am to a report of a protest taking place on the roof of a building on First Avenue in Southampton.

 “Officers have attended and remain at the scene with our colleagues from other emergency services to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of those involved. We are also in communication with the owners of the premises.

 “Everyone has the right to free speech and peaceful protest however, officers will take necessary action against those who choose to act outside the law.”