LONDON — Two environmental activists have been charged in connection with spraying orange paint powder on the Stonehenge monument in southwest England earlier this year, Wiltshire Police announced Thursday.
Rajan Naidu, 73, and Niamh Lynch, 22, face charges of “destroying or damaging an ancient protected monument” and “intentionally or recklessly causing a public nuisance.” Both are scheduled to appear at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court on Dec. 13.
The incident occurred in June when members of the climate activist group Just Stop Oil targeted the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The group released a video showing Naidu using a fire extinguisher to spray a cloud of orange powder at one of Stonehenge’s iconic vertical stones, while Lynch sprayed three others before being stopped. The group claimed the paint was made of cornstarch and would dissolve in the rain.
English Heritage, the charity responsible for managing the historic site, reported that the orange powder was promptly removed by conservation experts.
Stonehenge, constructed in stages beginning 5,000 years ago, remains a site of intrigue, with its purpose and origins still debated. The monument’s alignment with the summer solstice sunrise and winter solstice sunset attracts spiritualists, druids, and other visitors annually.
The Stonehenge protest is one of many high-profile disruptions orchestrated by Just Stop Oil to raise awareness about the climate crisis. The group has previously interrupted sporting events, defaced famous artworks, and blocked roadways, actions that have led to arrests, convictions, and widespread criticism.