Police Vow to Act Against Pro-Palestine March If Bridge Blocked
Thousands of people planning to participate in a pro-Palestine rally in Brisbane are facing arrest if they block traffic on the Story Bridge, following a magistrate’s ruling that the march is unauthorised.
The rally, expected to draw up to 10,000 people, was denied legal protection by Chief Magistrate Janelle Brassington on Thursday.
Brassington cited a “real and significant risk to persons” given the proposed route, which would have seen the march cross the major city bridge.
Organisers Undeterred
Despite the ruling, rally organiser Remah Naji said participants would still gather at the planned starting point in a nearby park, with the aim of staging a peaceful assembly.
Naji added that organisers were considering their options, including a potential court appeal to authorise the march.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Rhys Wildman warned that police would take enforcement action against anyone participating in an unauthorised protest, citing the need to protect the safety of the community and maintain access for emergency vehicles.
Nationwide Day of Action
The Brisbane rally is part of a nationwide day of action, billed as the largest pro-Palestine demonstration in Australia’s history.
Organisers, including Justice for Palestine, had proposed the march as a way to raise awareness and show solidarity with the Palestinian community.
Police have urged organisers to stay in contact with the major events unit, with Wildman warning that participants in an unauthorised protest face the prospect of arrest or charges, including obstruction of traffic.