A defence trade expo found itself at the centre of violent clashes between protesters and police. Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Henk Vrieselaar
The city of Melbourne bore witness to demonstrations that quickly
turned violent as protesters opposed the biennial Land Forces
International Land Defence Exposition, which took place from 11-13
September 2024 at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The three-day event serves as a trade expo for the defence industry
and attracts hundreds of defence and weapons companies from around the
world.
Victoria police were pelted with projectiles and offensive items as
they tried to protect expo attendees, and 27 officers have since
required medical treatment.
Currently, a total of 42 people have been arrested for various offences related to the protests.
At a press conference, Victoria Police chief commissioner Shane
Patton said: “If you wish to come and protest, do so peacefully… We will
not tolerate criminal behaviour.”