Greenpeace anti-war activists forced three mid Essex petrol stations to shut down.
Police and firefighters were called to Esso's Oaklands Service station on Princes Road, Chelmsford, after protesters - some dressed as tigers - took pumps out of their holders and locked them together with bicycle locks.
West End Service Station in Rainsford Road and Victoria Road Service Station were also targeted by protesters.
The protests were part of about 80 nationwide yesterday against Esso and its parent company ExxonMobil Corporation.
Greenpeace believes the company is supporting George Bush, who activists argue is intent on war only to get his hands on Iraqi oil.
When police arrived at Oaklands Service Station the protesters had already fled the forecourt.
Published Tuesday, February 25, 2003
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