Australia: Police arrest demonstrators in Sydney July 28

Event

Local police arrested at least six demonstrators during an unauthorized Black Lives Matter rally in the Domain area of Sydney's Central Business District on Tuesday, July 28. Approximately 50 protesters gathered on Tuesday, despite the current ban on public gatherings of more than 20 people amid the ongoing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Reports indicate that six protesters were detained in a public park prior to the start of the march and were fined. The remaining activists were dispersed by police. The anti-racism demonstration was smaller than expected and there were no immediate reports of clashes between police and the activists.

Additional protests and associated disruptions are possible in the near term.

Advice

Those in Sydney are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations, anticipate a heightened security presence and transportation disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.