Anti-War Protest Turns Chaotic in Melbourne

Anti-war protesters clashed with police outside Melbourne’s defence exhibition, leading to 39 arrests. The confrontation involved the use of sponge grenades, flash-bang devices, and irritant sprays by police, while protesters threw rocks and other objects. The event was the largest police operation in Melbourne since 2000.

Anti-war protesters and police clashed outside a defence exhibition in Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city, on Wednesday. Dozens were arrested as police deployed sponge grenades, flash-bang devices, and irritant sprays to manage the hostile crowd.

According to a Victoria state police spokesperson, officers faced rocks, horse manure, and bottles of liquid while trying to protect expo attendees, some of whom were assaulted by protesters. Two dozen police officers required medical attention, and 39 individuals were arrested for crimes including assault, obstruction, arson, and blocking roads, stated Shane Patton, Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police, at a press conference.

Protesters lit fires in the streets, disrupted traffic, and threw various objects at police horses, but no severe injuries were reported. Some officers were spat on and sprayed with a liquid irritant, some of which was identified as acid, Patton added. "If you wish to protest, do so peacefully. We will not tolerate criminal behavior," he warned.

Authorities reported that about 1,200 people attended the protest at the Land Forces International Land Defence Exposition venue, many chanting pro-Palestine slogans and waving flags. ABC News noted that some attendees were doused in red liquid. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the right to protest peacefully, urging respect for police officers.

(With inputs from agencies.)