Bondi Terror Attack: Police Swoop in with DRACONIC Crackdown on Protests as State of Fear Grips Sydney
- NSW Police Commissioner declares two-week protest ban in three Sydney regions after “tragic events” at Bondi Beach
- Restrictions aim to “reduce fear and increase safety” as community reels from attack that claimed 15 lives
- ANY protests during the ban will be deemed unauthorised, leaving participants at risk of being charged
The streets of Sydney are bracing for a draconian crackdown on protests, with NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon announcing a two-week ban in three metropolitan regions. The move comes in the wake of the devastating Bondi terror attack, which left 15 innocent lives lost and the community shattered.
“The tragic events at Bondi Beach have left a profound impact on our community and reaffirmed the urgent need for stronger safeguards to reduce fear and increase safety,” Commissioner Lanyon said, his voice laced with a sense of urgency.
In a bold move, the Commissioner has declared the South West Metropolitan, North West Metropolitan, and Central Metropolitan regions “restricted” from assemblies, citing the need to build safety and confidence in the community. Any further protest activity, he warned, would only “aggravate fear and divisiveness” at a time when unity is paramount.
“This is a time for community to come together and to show respect and courtesy – it’s not a time for large public assemblies and division,” he said, his words striking a chord with a community still reeling from the attack. “The community deserves to be safe and feel safe.”
During the 14-day ban, no public assemblies can be authorised, and applications for authorisation will be denied. If a protest takes place, it will be deemed unauthorised, leaving participants exposed to the risk of being charged. The ban can be reviewed and extended fortnightly up to three months.
But police have reassured the public that gatherings are permitted, as long as they do not obstruct or intimidate others. Move-on directions can be issued to anyone causing disruptions, and face coverings worn to conceal identities can be removed.
Commissioner Lanyon remains resolute in his commitment to community safety, saying the declaration is designed to give police the powers to “ensure community safety” and “strengthen safety and cohesion” across the state.
“We will continue working closely with the Government and community leaders to ensure these laws are implemented in a way that strengthens safety and cohesion across our state,” he vowed, as the city holds its breath in the face of uncertainty.