Manchester, September 1, 2023 – On a day that will be etched into our memories for its disturbing events, I am compelled to shed light on the shocking behavior of a prominent figure, Ross Markall, the Director of iO Associates. This incident unfolded during a protest organized by Palestine Action at the old Express Building in Manchester, which houses iO Associates, a recruitment consultancy.
As I documented the protest, I found myself subjected to a violent assault by none other than Ross Markall himself. The protest aimed to draw attention to iO Associates’ recruitment efforts for Elbit Systems staff, a matter of grave concern for many.
In a turn of events that no one could have anticipated, Ross Markall approached me from behind and forcibly pushed me towards a nearby wall. Miraculously, I managed to maintain my balance, thanks to the support of the wall. However, this was just the beginning of a distressing sequence of events.
Ross Markall then turned his aggression towards a protester, unleashing a frightening display of physical violence. The footage captured during this moment is chilling, illustrating the rapid escalation of tensions during protests.
What sets this incident apart is that my 14-year-old daughter was present and recording the incident on her phone. Understanding the importance of transparency and the need to document events, she was determined to capture the truth. Tragically, her commitment to truth-seeking angered Ross Markall. In an inexplicable act of aggression, he seized her phone and ruthlessly smashed it on the ground.
Ross Markall’s behavior during this protest raises serious questions about accountability, lawful conduct, and the responsibilities of individuals in positions of authority. The fact that he, as the Director of iO Associates, would resort to violence in a public setting is deeply troubling.
Press freedom is a cornerstone of democracy, ensuring that the public has access to unfiltered information. Journalists should be able to work without fear of intimidation or violence. The incident involving Ross Markall challenges these principles and highlights the urgent need to protect press freedom and the safety of journalists.
Despite multiple camera angles capturing Ross Markall’s actions, it is bewildering that authorities have not pursued charges against him. This leaves us with critical questions about accountability and the rule of law.
This incident outside iO Associates serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding press freedom and holding those who threaten it accountable. As a society, we must not let such incidents go unnoticed or unpunished if we are to uphold the principles that underpin our democratic values.
It is essential that we collectively stand against any form of violence or aggression, regardless of the individual’s position or influence. Our commitment to press freedom, transparency, and the safety of journalists is non-negotiable.
Watch the shocking incident unfold below in the following video
Shoots Photographs 