DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - Seven people were arrested Monday in Des Moines following an anti-war gathering in opposition of drones, according to participating protesters.
The Des Moines Veterans for Peace and the Des Moines Catholic Workers say the seven people arrested outside the Iowa Air National Guard base face a simple misdemeanor of criminal trespass. They have been released on their own recognizance.
About 30 people showed up for Monday’s event, which is part of a national campaign, The Des Moines Register reported (https://dmreg.co/1kXZbEg ).
An announcement came from inside the base for protesters, many of whom carried signs, to move. The seven people that were eventually arrested are from Iowa, Minnesota and New York.
This marks the groups’ second protest in days. A similar event Saturday was held at the same location, though no arrests were made.
The protesters say they oppose remotely piloted aircraft known as drones, saying their use for military strikes dehumanize victims of war.
The Iowa Air National Guard’s 132nd Fighter Wing is in the process of transitioning to missions that involve drones. A message left Monday for the Iowa National Guard was not immediately returned.
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Information from: The Des Moines Register, https://www.desmoinesregister.com
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