The NSW Police Force is pleased that all protests this afternoon across NSW remained peaceful.
High-visibility policing operations were launched to facilitate planned protests today (Saturday 6 June 2020), and ensure the safety of participants, as well as the community and local businesses.
In Sydney’s CBD, general duties officers from Sydney City Police Area Command and across the Central Metropolitan Region, assisted by specialist resources, were deployed to ensure peaceful and lawful demonstrations.
Demonstrations also took place this afternoon at Newcastle, Byron Bay, Lismore, Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Wyong, Wagga Wagga and Broken Hill.
Operation Commander in Sydney, Assistant Commissioner Mick Willing, said commanders across the state reported minimal disruption to their communities at similar events.
“I have spoken with commanders who have said they are pleased that all their protests were essentially peaceful,” Assistant Commissioner Willing said.
“Initially, we had a tough job in Sydney as the police operation was already underway when the Supreme Court decision was overturned, but we rapidly changed plans to ensure the event would run smoothly.
“There were some concerns raised by officers on the ground around physical distancing, and while some people were spoken to, no formal police action was required.”
During the Sydney CBD operation, two males were arrested about 2.20pm at Town Hall Railway Station following an alleged affray.
The pair – aged 15 and 23 – were involved in a physical altercation on their way to the protest and the older man allegedly became aggressive towards police, before he was tasered and arrested.
He was taken to hospital for treatment, and upon release, is expected to be charged with affray. The teenager was issued with a Youth Caution. It is believed they are known to each other.
Another man was arrested at Town Hall Railway Station about 2.30pm, over an alleged breach of the peace. The 51-year-old man was moved from the area and spoken to by officers. His details were taken before he was released. No further police action is anticipated at this time.
“Some 20,000 protesters turned out in Sydney today, and to only have three arrested is a really positive result,” Assistant Commissioner Willing said.
“I also want to acknowledge the professionalism of the police officers involved in the operations today.
“They displayed impressive levels of patience and resilience under difficult circumstances.”
