The NSW Police Force is under scrutiny as the state’s police watchdog launches an investigation into officer conduct during a protest at Sydney Town Hall on Monday, following a “significant number of complaints” from the public.
During the protest, tensions escalated amid allegations of police misconduct towards demonstrators. Despite the controversy, NSW Premier Chris Minns defended the police response, describing it as “proportionate.”
A particularly contentious moment captured on video showed officers dispersing a group of Muslim men engaged in prayer, sparking widespread criticism. Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon responded, clarifying that the directive was not intended to target any religious practice and expressed regret for any perceived disrespect to religious customs.
The ongoing investigation will delve into the legality and appropriateness of the actions taken by the NSW Police and individual officers involved in the incident.
The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC), an independent body overseeing the NSW Police Force, will conduct the inquiry.
The LECC is the independent and specialist oversight body for the NSW Police Force.
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