Demonstrators disrupt shopping at Home Bargains over Israeli product sales
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A recent protest at a Home Bargains store in Aberdeen has resulted in the arrest of six individuals, including a 62-year-old woman, Willemien Hoogendoorn. The demonstration, which took place on Beach Boulevard, was organized to voice opposition against the sale of Israeli goods, particularly products sourced from the Dead Sea.
Details of the protest and arrests
The protest unfolded on a Saturday afternoon, where demonstrators were reported to have caused a significant disturbance within the store. According to eyewitness accounts, the protestors removed Dead Sea Salt products from the shelves and placed them into shopping trolleys, actively discouraging other customers from purchasing these items.
They also allegedly displayed banners that obstructed access to various sections of the store and affixed stickers over products, further emphasizing their message.
Hoogendoorn appeared at Aberdeen Sheriff Court following her arrest, facing charges of breach of the peace and failing to provide her name to police officers. She denied the allegations and refused to comply with bail conditions that would have required her to stay away from the store. Consequently, she was remanded in custody until her trial, scheduled for March 21, 2025.
The protest was organized by the Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign (SPSC), which has been vocal about its stance on boycotting Home Bargains due to the sale of products they believe are linked to Israeli production. Following the arrests, the SPSC released a statement urging the community to continue their boycott efforts, highlighting the hashtag #TheHomeBargainsSix on social media platforms.
In addition to Hoogendoorn, five other individuals were arrested during the protest. While they have been charged, their court appearances are scheduled for a later date. The police confirmed that the group included one man, aged 35, and five women aged between 19 and 62 years old.
Police statement and ongoing developments
Police Scotland responded to the incident around PM on the day of the protest, following reports of a disturbance at the supermarket. A spokesperson for the police confirmed the arrests and stated that a report would be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal for further action.
The ongoing situation has sparked discussions within the community regarding the implications of such protests and the broader issues surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As the trial date approaches for Hoogendoorn, the case is expected to draw further attention, both locally and nationally.
