https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/sep/12/melbourne-war-protests-la...Anti-war protesters prepare for further rallies after fiery clashes
with police outside Melbourne weapons expo
Victoria police searching activists as about 100 people march through CBD on Thursday, a day after dozens were arrested and injured
Victorian police are patting down anti-war protesters and checking bags as they prepare for the potential for further confrontations, a day after violent clashes on Melbourne’s streets.
Helicopters were circling the CBD on Thursday morning as pro-Palestine and anti-war protesters prepared for further demonstrations outside the Land Forces exposition, an international military conference at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Chaotic scenes between activists and police broke out on Wednesday during protests sparked by the government’s stance on the conflict in the Middle East and the use of weapons on display at the expo – including in Gaza.
Police were out in force again early on Thursday, maintaining no-go lines near the convention centre ahead of visitors arriving at the expo. They used metal wands to search people for weapons in their bags and had formed a huge barricade around the centre.
Amid the violent scenes, a coalition of human rights groups have written to the Victorian government calling for the prohibition of explosive devices, pepper spray and police horses at protests, which they say is an unnecessary use of force.
Forty-two people were arrested and charged with assaulting, hindering and obstructing police, arson and blocking roadways.
The activists will rally outside the offices of defence contractors Hanwha Defence and Elbit Systems before holding a vigil for Gaza.
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