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NSW Watchdog Opens Inquiry Into Police Tactics at Sydney Town Hall Protest

The LECC will examine the operation to deliver a public report to parliament.

Overview

  • The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission announced a public-interest investigation after receiving a significant number of complaints about the NSW Police operation at Town Hall.
  • Investigators will obtain and review phone and body-worn video, police documents and records, hold hearings, and assess the lawfulness and appropriateness of officers’ conduct.
  • NSW Police confirmed a senior officer had agreed to let a group finish sunset prayers before other officers moved them, and the commissioner apologised for offence caused by the interference.
  • Police reported 27 arrests with 10 people charged, as widely shared footage showing officers punching protesters and using pepper spray intensified scrutiny of the response.
  • Premier Chris Minns and senior police defended the operation and rejected calls for an independent probe, while Labor backbenchers, Greens MPs and Islamic leaders pressed for accountability and a public apology.