September 10th 2024.
As the city of Melbourne hosts the Land Forces Defence Expo at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, authorities are bracing themselves for a massive turnout of anti-war protesters. It is estimated that around 25,000 individuals will gather to voice their opposition to the expo, which is expected to be the largest protest the city has seen in decades.
In preparation for this event, nearly 1800 police officers, including members of the riot squad, have been deployed and given special powers to search and arrest individuals. As the first day of the expo begins, the atmosphere is tense as demonstrators and police clash in the streets. Videos have surfaced of protesters attempting to grab the reins of horses ridden by officers, while others have been arrested after being sprayed with capsicum spray.
The protest has also caused significant disruptions to traffic, with several roads being closed and trams being rerouted. The Department of Transport is advising commuters to use city loop train services instead. The cost of this police operation is estimated to be around $15 million, according to State Treasurer Tim Pallas. Premier Jacinta Allan has also stated that there is no tolerance for disruptive behavior during the protest.
The expo, which was planned before Israel's invasion of Gaza, has become a focal point for protesters to express their outrage over the ongoing conflict. Many attendees have been seen waving Palestinian flags, and protest organizer Nathalie Farah has stated that they want Australia to stop supplying weapons to Israel, as it goes against international law.
Greens MP Gabrielle de Vietri has also announced her attendance at the protest, stating that the convention should have never been allowed to take place. As the day progresses, tensions are expected to rise and the city is bracing for further disruptions. Stay updated on all the latest news, including this protest, by following us on WhatsApp. Our channel offers breaking news, celebrity updates, and sports news without any comments or algorithms, ensuring your privacy.
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