Esso will look into blockade
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• Esso is launching an investigation into the blockade of its Purfleet fuel distribution depot by Greenpeace protesters last Wednesday, which led to the shutting down of operations for a whole day.
Despite security officers being present at the site, an Esso spokeswoman says 14 tankers were "jumped on and tampered with" by some of the 50-strong group of protesters, who invaded the depot and blocked the exit and entrance.
Although the tankers were unable to move in or out of the depot, Esso says supplies at forecourts were not disrupted. After undergoing "rigorous" safety checks the tankers involved in the incident resumed distribution services the following day.
Greenpeace admits that tankers were painted, but says no other damage was done. The campaigners want Esso, part of Exxon Mobil, to alter its stance on climate change after its opposition to the Kyoto agreement.