Six of us picketed DSEi organisers Reed Exhibitions/Spearhead in Richmond on Tuesday, wearing white `Weapons Inspector' overalls. We didn't have a bomb to hand in, but we presented Reed with a collection of bloodied and dismembered dolls as a reminder of the results of their work. They didn't seem too keen to be reminded, and insisted on us leaving their office.

Picketing outside, we told people about DSEi, gave out fliers, held our "shut down spearhead" banner, and put up signs to help Reed advertise DSEi. The security guard seemed worried that we might come back and give them some more dolls, and refused to open the door to anyone, sending staff to the back door.

Loads of cops then arrived, and threatened to arrest us if we didn't move, either for trespassing on Reed's forecourt or obstructing the pavement. Both of these seem highly spurious, but we didn't want to be arrested so we moved to the back of the building and then wondered round the locality telling people about DSEi and Reed. One of the cops told us that damage had been done in the past, but wouldn't give any more details (he could have been referring to:
 http://www.indymedia.org.uk/en/2004/09/297667.html

Reed Exhibitions has been picketed about every month for over a year, always very peacefully, and only once before has there been any objection to the picket, when police issued a temporary asbo (see link) to disperse two protesters and a baby.
 https://www4.indymedia.org.uk/en/2004/08/296948.html

The next monthly picket at will be 1pm, Monday 6 June, at Reed Exhibitions, Oriel House, The Quadrant, opposite Richmond Station.