Face of Nation : Hundreds of protesters have caused a major disruption in Melbourne’s CBD today, after shutting down a busy bridge to demand action against climate change. More than 300 people have swarmed Princes Bridge, causing disruption to pedestrians, traffic and tram services.
The protest was organised by climate change group, Extinction Rebellion, with members saying they planned to block the bridge until police move them on. It is believed at least a dozen people have been arrested so far, with the group saying many more are willing to be arrested as well.
The protesters that are sitting down and refusing to move are being carried out of the area by police one by one. Footage posted to Facebook shows about ten police officers approaching a group of protesters who are sitting on the ground and waving flags.
One of the officers leans down to speak with a man before a group of police lift him off the ground by his arms and legs and carry him away. A female protester is also spoken to before being carried off in the same fashion.
As the two are taken away more protesters split off from the main group to take their places sitting on the ground. A Facebook event for the protest claims the aim of the demonstration is draw attention to the “climate and ecological emergency we are facing” by disrupting “business as usual”.
“All are welcome to be part of this, and we encourage everyone to volunteer. This will be a powerful, fun and peaceful disruption,” the event states. “It will demonstrate to Melbourne, to Australia and to the world that we are rebelling, and that this rebellion is for everyone.”
Victoria Police said they were aware of the planned protest ahead of time and are working to ensure a “safe environment for those involved as well as the rest of the community”.
“Police have common law powers to prevent a breach of the peace, including but not limited to separating rival groups, preventing access to an area and restraining or detaining people until the peace is restored,” Victoria Police said.
