Just Stop Oil activists carried out a daring raid on a VIP private airfield at Stansted Airport in the early hours, vandalising several jets just hours after Taylor Swift’s private plane touched down.
Jennifer Kowalski and Cole Macdonald breached perimeter fences shortly after 5am, armed with fire extinguishers filled with bright orange paint. The two protesters spray-painted multiple aircraft before posing in front of their vandalism for photographs.
The eco-activist group Just Stop Oil defended the stunt on social media, emphasising the urgency of their message. They highlighted that “80% of the population has never taken a flight,” drawing attention to the environmental impact of private jets.
Just Stop Oil is known for extreme protests aimed at raising awareness about climate change issues.
Essex Police quickly arrested Kowalski and Macdonald following the brazen security breach. The incident has raised serious concerns about security shortcomings at the VIP airfield, which reportedly serves high-profile clients including Taylor Swift.
The pop superstar is scheduled to perform at Wembley Stadium on Friday as part of her Eras tour, although officials have not confirmed whether her jet was specifically targeted during the vandalism.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemned the attack, calling for condemnation from anyone associated with Just Stop Oil. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer described the activists as “pathetic” and urged that they face the full consequences of the law.
This event follows other controversial Just Stop Oil protests, including arrests related to damage at Stonehenge.
Essex Police continue to investigate the break-in, while the incident has triggered a wider review of security measures at VIP airfields across the country. Authorities have pledged to strengthen protections to prevent future attacks on private jets linked to celebrities and VIPs.
Originally published by UKNIP.