Anti-war demonstrators and police clashed violently in Melbourne during a protest against a military hardware sales show, resulting in multiple arrests and injuries.
The demonstration, targeting the Land Forces International Land Defense Exposition, turned chaotic as an estimated 1,200 protesters, many carrying Palestinian flags, confronted police lines.
Police Response
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Shane Patton reported that 39 people were arrested. About two dozen officers received treatment for injuries sustained during the unrest.
Patton accused violent protesters of hypocrisy, stating they claimed to be "anti-violence" while engaging in aggressive acts.
Protester Claims
Demonstrators, however, accused the police of excessive force. Jasmine Duff from Students for Palestine described the police response as "extremely violent" and "unprecedented," citing the use of flashbang grenades and pepper spray.
Some reports mentioned rubber bullets, but Commissioner Patton clarified these were hard foam baton rounds.
Event Details
The Land Forces Expo, not open to the public, is expected to draw over 1,000 corporations from 31 countries. Activists claim many weapons displayed have been used by Israeli forces in Gaza.
Government Stance
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the violence, emphasizing Australians' right to protest peacefully. He stated, "You don't say you're opposed to defense equipment by throwing things at police."
Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan defended the event, saying delegates have the right to gather peacefully in Melbourne.
Controversy Over Policing Costs
The deployment of extra police, including officers from New South Wales, reportedly cost around A$10m (£7.6m). Protest organizers criticized this expenditure as "absolutely outrageous."
As the expo continues, tensions remain high, with authorities on alert for further potential unrest.