Chaos Erupts at Melbourne Defence Expo

Anti-war protesters and police clashed violently at a defence exhibition in Melbourne. Police used sponge grenades and irritant sprays to control the crowd, while protesters threw rocks and other objects. Several officers required medical treatment, 33 people were arrested, and disruptions affected public transport and traffic.

Violent clashes broke out between anti-war protesters and police at the Land Forces International Land Defence Exposition in Melbourne on Wednesday. Police resorted to using sponge grenades, flash-bang devices, and irritant sprays to manage a hostile crowd throwing rocks and other objects.

According to a Victoria state police spokesperson, 24 officers required medical assistance, and 33 individuals were arrested for offenses such as assaulting police, arson, and road obstruction. Protesters lit fires, disrupted traffic and public transport, and threw missiles at police horses, though no serious injuries were reported.

The protest, attended by about 1,200 people, saw participants chanting pro-Palestine slogans and attempting to block police lines with dumpsters. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the violence and emphasized the need for peaceful protests.

(With inputs from agencies.)