Sydney Police Investigated for Protest Handling

Over 800 complaints filed against Sydney police for protest response. This is a record number, showing serious concerns about their actions.
By Newsroom | Law Enforcement, Sydney |

A record 800-plus complaints have landed on the desk of the NSW Police watchdog, concerning the handling of Sydney’s recent anti-Herzog protest. The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) has labelled the police organisation as "obstructive and overly defensive" in its dealings with the investigation.

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The LECC's Chief Commissioner, Peter Johnson, SC, appeared before a parliamentary committee this past Friday, flagging the need for enhanced powers. He seeks the ability to compel police to produce documents, a move intended to expedite misconduct investigations. Inspector Bruce McClintock, SC, an LECC official, stressed to the committee that effective operation hinges on police co-operation. Meanwhile, charges against at least one protester have already been dropped by police.

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Watchdog Probes Allegations of Force and Restraint

The LECC is now undertaking a formal investigation into the appropriateness and lawfulness of NSW Police conduct during the demonstration. This probe follows a "significant number of complaints" lodged after the protest against the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

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Footage circulating after the rally appears to show officers striking demonstrators and dragging away a group of praying Muslim men. Authorities reported 27 arrests at the event, with nine individuals later charged. Police also stated that 10 officers sustained injuries.

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The Palestine Action Group (PAG), the organisers of the protest, has welcomed the LECC's investigation. They have called for the resignation of NSW Police Commissioner Malcolm Lanyon and Premier Chris Minns, whom they accuse of backing police actions despite growing criticism. A state MP was also reported to have been injured during the proceedings.

Reports indicate that police deployed pepper spray against protesters. Witnesses also observed officers employing a tactic known as "kettling," confining demonstrators to a specific area. Premier Chris Minns has publicly supported the police's actions. However, the LECC's Inspector Bruce McClintock noted the importance of police cooperation for the watchdog's effectiveness.

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The protest itself occurred shortly after protesters faced a setback in a legal bid to prevent a ban on a march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The NSW Supreme Court had previously rejected police efforts to prohibit the demonstration. The court’s decision highlighted that police retain significant powers to manage safety and effect arrests, irrespective of assembly authorisation.

The court ruling emphasised that delays can diminish the impact of free speech and assembly. Police forces maintained extensive powers under existing legislation to issue directions, make arrests for breaches of the peace, and manage public safety, even if an assembly was deemed authorised.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are Sydney police being investigated?
Sydney police are being investigated after receiving over 800 complaints about how they handled a recent anti-Herzog protest. The watchdog, LECC, said police were 'obstructive'.
Q: What are the complaints about?
The complaints are about the police's conduct during the protest, including alleged use of force, pepper spray, and 'kettling' tactics. Footage also appears to show officers striking demonstrators and dragging praying men.
Q: What is the LECC and what does it want?
The LECC is the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission, a watchdog for police. Its Chief Commissioner wants more power to force police to give documents to help investigations.
Q: What has happened to protesters?
Police arrested 27 people during the protest, and 9 were later charged. However, charges against at least one protester have been dropped.
Q: What do protest organisers say?
The Palestine Action Group, who organised the protest, welcomed the investigation. They have asked for the police chief and the Premier to resign, saying they supported the police actions.
Q: What was the court's decision before the protest?
Before the protest, the NSW Supreme Court rejected police attempts to ban a march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The court said delays in blocking free speech can reduce its impact.