LONDON — Two activists focused on environmental issues have been charged after they sprayed orange powder paint on the Stonehenge monument in southern England this past June, according to a statement from local police.

The individuals involved, 73-year-old Rajan Naidu and 22-year-old Niamh Lynch, face allegations of “destroying or damaging an ancient protected monument” as well as “intentionally or recklessly causing a public nuisance,” as noted by Wiltshire Police. They are scheduled to appear in Salisbury Magistrates’ Court on December 13.

Following the incident at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, the activist group Just Stop Oil claimed responsibility. They released footage featuring Naidu, who was seen discharging orange powder from a fire extinguisher onto one of the stone structures. Lynch reportedly sprayed three of the stones before she was intercepted, with the organization stating that the paint used was made from cornstarch and would dissolve with rainfall.

In the aftermath of the protest, English Heritage—an organization responsible for overseeing numerous historical sites—announced that professionals acted quickly to clean the orange powder off the stones.

Stonehenge, which was erected over 5,000 years ago on an exposed plain in southern England, continues to captivate with its enigmatic origins and purpose. The arrangement of the stone circle aligns with key astronomical events, such as the sunrise on the summer solstice and sunset on the winter solstice, attracting many spiritual seekers, druids, and sun worshippers.

This demonstration forms part of an extensive series of disruptive actions led by Just Stop Oil aimed at highlighting the urgent climate crisis. Their protests have interrupted sporting events, vandalized notable pieces of art, and caused significant traffic disruptions. The ongoing activities have resulted in numerous convictions and sentences, alongside widespread backlash from the public.