Police Actions at Protest Spark Controversy

An incident involving police and protesters in Belmore, New South Wales, has ignited debate. Video footage appears to show officers using force, prompting accusations of brutality. The event, captured on video, has led to strong reactions and calls for an inquiry into the actions of law enforcement.

Incident Details Emerge

Footage allegedly shows police officers removing a protester from a demonstration and pushing them to the ground. The incident has drawn criticism from figures like NSW Greens MP Sue Higginson, who witnessed the video and spoke with arrested protesters.

Video posted to Instagram that was filmed during an altercation between NSW Police and protesters at a picketing of a business in Belmore on Friday.

“Everyone is so shocked and distressed. I can’t believe this has happened,”

—Sue Higginson

According to a 2023 report, community trust in police has fallen in some areas, underlining the importance of transparency (Source: Justice Department).

Context and Accusations

Mehreen Faruqi, Greens deputy leader, voiced support for the protester, Hannah Thomas. Faruqi highlighted Thomas‘s advocacy against government complicity in the ongoing situation. Police told ABC News the incident was not classified as critical.

Higginson described the police conduct as excessive and brutal. She plans to write to the Police Minister, Yasmin Catley, and the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission, insisting on a critical incident investigation. Four protesters were charged and released on bail.

Peter O’Brien of O’Brien Solicitors is representing Thomas and the other arrested protesters. Higginson characterized the event as a symptom of NSW’s “intolerance for protest”. The charged protesters will appear at Bankstown Local Court on Tuesday.