NSW authorities have defended police conduct after a protest in Sydney’s CBD against the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog ended in violence, with 27 people arrested.
Police said about 6,000 people gathered at Town Hall on Monday night for a rally organised by Palestine Action Group. Tensions escalated when sections of the crowd attempted to march towards NSW Parliament, despite the move being unlawful under public order restrictions.
Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna said officers were “threatened, jostled and assaulted” during “rolling fights” and “violent behaviour”, adding: “I absolutely think police actions were justified.”
Premier Chris Minns said police had done “everything possible” to avoid confrontation, describing the situation as “difficult” and highly charged.
PAG spokesperson Josh Lees blamed police for the violence, saying: “Of course this is not what I wanted to see, this sickening police brutality,” and alleging protesters were pepper sprayed while trying to leave.
Greens MP Jenny Leong also claimed people were sprayed as they attempted to exit the area, saying police blocked access points and detained protesters.
Mr McKenna said police were also managing security for a nearby Jewish memorial event attended by Mr Herzog, warning that isolated videos circulating online lacked context.
“Police didn’t go out there looking for fights, police didn’t go out there looking for violence, but that happened tonight,” he said.
No police officers were seriously injured. Several protesters were treated by paramedics following the use of OC spray.
Source: ABC News
