WAILUKU, Maui (AP) — A convoy is bringing construction equipment for a half-completed telescope to the summit of Haleakala despite a protest Thursday night that ended with 20 arrests. ADVERTISING WAILUKU, Maui (AP) — A convoy is bringing construction equipment
WAILUKU, Maui (AP) — A convoy is bringing construction equipment for a half-completed telescope to the summit of Haleakala despite a protest Thursday night that ended with 20 arrests.
The Maui News reports telescope officials brought in police and park officials ahead of Thursday night’s effort, saying they weren’t prepared for a protest on June 24 that forced the convoy to turn back.
“Well, they’re more prepared this time around, it seems,” Kakoo Haleakala member Kahele Dukelow told Hawaii News Now. “And from what people have said, talking to some of their representatives tonight is that they’re not going to back down tonight.”
Five protesters joined hands inside pipes and laid themselves in front of the vehicles. Police spent several hours using handsaws to cut through the pipes.
Hawaii News Now reports officers arrested at least 20 protesters.
Officers escorted the equipment from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., with the road to the summit remaining closed until 2 p.m. Friday.
Protesters say construction on the $300 million project should be halted pending the outcome of a Hawaii Supreme Court decision.
