Protesters clash with police at Melbourne arms convention

Dozens of arrests occurred during an anti-war protest in Melbourne, where demonstrators clashed with police at a military hardware sales event. Protesters accused law enforcement of using excessive force, including flashbang grenades and irritant sprays, while police reported being targeted with rocks, manure, and acid-filled bottles. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the violence, emphasizing the importance of peaceful protest. The event, which attracted over 1,000 corporations from 31 countries, showcased military equipment, including artillery and semi-automatic weapons, prompting activists to voice concerns about the use of such weapons in conflicts like Gaza. The police had anticipated potential unrest and deployed significant resources, reportedly spending around A$10 million on security measures. This included officers brought in from New South Wales to manage the situation. Activists expressed outrage over the police presence and the level of violence directed at peaceful demonstrators, with some claiming that the police response was unprecedented in its severity. Footage from the protests showed demonstrators pushing dumpsters towards police lines and setting fires throughout the city. The clashes resulted in injuries to approximately two dozen police officers, with 39 individuals arrested. Activists argued that their actions were in line with their anti-war stance, while police criticized the demonstrators for hypocrisy in their violent methods. The protests highlighted a growing tension between law enforcement and activists advocating for peace, raising questions about the balance between security and the right to protest. Organizers of the protest expressed their dismay at the police's heavy-handed tactics, calling for a more measured approach to handling demonstrations in the future.