Detectives from the Bastion Taskforce are today releasing images of a further 13 people they’re seeking to identify over a violent protest outside the Land Forces Expo on 11 September.
Police believe the individuals can assist with inquiries into multiple incidents.
They include an affray on Seafarers Bridge which targeted expo attendees, paint being thrown over police and the discharge of multiple missiles.
Protestors also deliberately obstructed police horses, one putting e-scooters and bikes in their path, while another threw coffee over a member of the public.
There have now been 110 people arrested over the Land Forces Expo, which ran for three days.
The figure comprises 89 people arrested on 11-13 September and 21 people arrested in the weeks following the protest.
The latest were just last week.
A 24-year-old Surrey Hills man has been charged with obstructing and assaulting police and bailed to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 21 January next year.
A 30-year-old Fawkner woman will be charged on summons with assaulting police.
During the protests, which occurred outside the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, it’s alleged there were rocks, projectiles, liquid which smelt strongly of vomit, horse manure, eggs and liquid irritants hurled at police officers, horses, and expo attendees.
Several police horses and riders were allegedly splashed with a liquid irritant including being sprayed under face protectors, going into their mouths and nostrils, and were repeatedly pushed and hit with plastic crates.
Anyone with information about the people depicted in the images released is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Quotes attributable to Mark Galliott, Acting Assistant Commissioner North West Metro Region.
“The behaviour we saw during these protests was nothing short of deplorable.
“While people have a right to protest peacefully, they do not have a right to unleash violence.
“We saw police attacked, police horses targeted, and expo delegates assaulted.
“Victoria Police is committed to identifying alleged offenders and presenting them to the courts.
“Already more than 100 people have been arrested and we believe the release of these new images will further assist our investigations.
“If you recognise any of the individuals pictured, we urge you to come forward and speak with police.”
