Massive Clashes Erupt Between Police and Protesters at Melbourne's Defence Expo

A major confrontation unfolded outside the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, where a large defence and weapons expo is underway, leading to a standoff between police and protesters. Victoria Police launched one of its largest operations in more than two decades to handle the protests, marking the most significant mobilization since the S11 demonstrations at the World Economic Forum 24 years ago.

P24 News Media

September 11, 2024

1 minute

A major confrontation unfolded outside the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, where a large defence and weapons expo is underway, leading to a standoff between police and protesters.

Victoria Police launched one of its largest operations in more than two decades to handle the protests, marking the most significant mobilization since the S11 demonstrations at the World Economic Forum 24 years ago.

Australia

Violence Breaks Out: Protesters and Police Exchange Missiles

Victoria Police expressed its "outrage" over the violent behavior of some demonstrators who gathered at the arms expo in Melbourne. The authorities reported that officers were targeted with rocks, bottles, horse manure, and even acid.

Simultaneously, accusations were leveled against the police for using excessive force, including the deployment of capsicum spray and stun grenades. The massive protest attracted thousands outside Melbourne’s Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), where the Land Forces International Land Defence Exposition, a key event for global defence companies, is being held. The protests quickly turned into aggressive clashes with law enforcement.

Police Respond to Unruly Protesters

In a formal statement, Victoria Police noted that their officers were on-site to ensure the safety and security of the event. However, the situation escalated when officers came under attack. According to police, attendees of the expo were also assaulted, with some officers being spat at and sprayed with liquid irritants, including acid.

Missiles were reportedly thrown at police horses as well, though there have been no reports of severe injuries to the animals. So far, 39 individuals have been arrested on charges ranging from assault to arson and obstructing police activities.

Protesters Set Fires and Block Traffic

Protesters lit fires across the city, obstructed traffic, and even climbed on top of vehicles in their bid to disrupt the expo. Organizers of the rally expressed their shock at the violence aimed at community members who were peacefully advocating for peace. Journalists reported witnessing the use of rubber bullets and tear gas-like substances deployed by the police.

The police, in response, confirmed the use of foam baton rounds, flash distraction devices, and PAVA powder—similar to pepper spray but dispensed in liquid form. This action was necessary, they argued, to control the increasingly volatile situation.

Authorities Condemn Protesters' Actions

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan criticized the behavior of protesters towards the police, calling their actions "disgraceful." She emphasized that the officers were doing their job by ensuring public safety and deserved to be treated with respect.

Despite the heavy police presence, protesters continued their demonstrations, which began before dawn. Their numbers grew as they marched through the streets of Melbourne, chanting pro-Palestine slogans and eventually surrounding the expo venue. A line of mounted police and riot squad officers was formed to prevent protesters from accessing the West Gate Freeway.

Police Resources Stretched as Protests Persist

The operation to manage the protests has been costly, with Treasurer Tim Pallas revealing that more than $10 million had been allocated for additional police deployments. Hundreds of regional police officers were called into Melbourne, making it the largest operation for Victoria Police in over 20 years.

Protesters have raised concerns about the financial costs and the scale of the police operation, criticizing the use of riot police from New South Wales. Anneke Demanuele, a key organizer from Students for Palestine, stated that while their aim was to shut down the expo, they were committed to peaceful demonstrations.

Political Figures Weigh In on the Protests

Victorian Police Minister Anthony Carbines confirmed that specialist officers from interstate were brought in to assist local forces. He expressed disappointment at the behavior of some protesters, vowing that those who behaved recklessly would be dealt with.

Premier Jacinta Allan defended the Victorian government's sponsorship of the Land Forces conference, asserting that such industry events had the right to take place in a respectful and peaceful manner.

Greens MP Joins the Protests, Faces Criticism

Greens MP Gabrielle de Vietri defended her decision to attend the protest, despite criticism from Opposition Leader John Pesutto, who called for her removal from parliament. De Vietri argued that as an elected representative, her job was to stand up for her community, which had made clear its opposition to the arms expo.

She further condemned the police response, calling the force used against demonstrators "disgusting" and "unwarranted." However, Premier Allan criticized de Vietri's participation, accusing her of engaging in political stunts for personal gain.

Shadow Minister for Police Brad Battin also echoed this sentiment, calling on political figures to stand with the police instead of the protesters who had resorted to violence.