More than a quarter of those taking part in a protest in Brighton today were arrested.
Sussex Police said that nearly 40 people were taken into custody during the Smash EDO protest.
About 150 protesters took part in the demonstration, which they called Hammertime.
Most of the arrests were for breaching the peace or public order offences although one was for having “a bladed article” and two were for theft.
The demonstration was directed against EDO MBM Technology in Home Farm Road, Moulsecoomb.
The protesters object to EDO making part of the weapon systems which are used by the Israeli air force in Gaza.
Chief Superintendent Graham Bartlett, the officer in charge of policing the protest today, said: “Officers have made significant arrests this afternoon in order to prevent a further breach of the peace.
“Despite designating a highly visible site for protesters on the main road to the factory, many of them have not used it.
“Our aim today was to facilitate peaceful protest.
“Instead many have caused disruption by failing to comply with police directions, running away through fields and woodland and causing a disruption to local people.
“Their disorderly behaviour has put pressure on police resources as we have needed to contain them to curb further disruption.
“They have blocked major roads and headed towards other targets in the city.
“Given those arrested have been detained to prevent a breach of the peace, we anticipate that they will be released when the risk of a further breach has diminished.
“There have been more arrests than last year because of the disruption caused to the community.
“When this happens the public would expect us to act and that is what we have done today.
“Injuries have been caused by protesters running around.
