More Arrests Made in Connection to Violent Protests at Land Forces Expo: Police Release Images of Suspects
The Bastion Taskforce has announced that they have made further arrests in relation to the protest that took place at the Land Forces Expo on September 11th. This brings the total number of arrests to 12, in addition to the 89 individuals who were charged or fined on the day of the protest.
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According to the taskforce, the most recent arrests include a 30-year-old man from Preston who was taken into custody on October 30th for allegedly pushing crates against police horses. He is facing nine charges, including affray, hindering or obstructing police, animal abuse, and possession of drugs of dependence. He is scheduled to appear in court on November 21st.
A 63-year-old man from Crib Point was also arrested on October 22nd for allegedly performing the Nazi salute at the protest. He is expected to be charged with the offence on summons.
On October 28th, a 28-year-old man from Nunawading was arrested and charged with affray and seven counts of hindering or obstructing police. He was also bailed to appear in court on November 21st.
In addition, two individuals were arrested in connection to an altercation with a person attending the expo. A 27-year-old woman from Coburg was taken into custody on October 24th, while a 31-year-old man from Hoppers Crossing was arrested on October 25th. Both are facing charges of affray and have been bailed to appear in court on November 21st.
During the protest, which took place outside of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, police allege that there were multiple items thrown at officers, horses, and expo attendees. These items included rocks, projectiles, a liquid with a strong smell of vomit, horse manure, eggs, and liquid irritants.
Several police horses and riders were also reportedly targeted, with the use of a liquid irritant that was sprayed under their face protectors and into their mouths and nostrils. They were also allegedly pushed and hit with plastic crates.
Police would like to speak to any of the following individuals regarding their investigation.
As part of their ongoing investigation, detectives have released images of individuals they believe may have information about the offences committed during the protest. These offences include assaulting police, animal cruelty, affray, discharging a missile, and obstructing police.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au. The Bastion Taskforce continues to investigate the events of the protest and encourages anyone with information to come forward.
