SYDNEY, Sept 14 (NNN-AGENCIES) – Hundreds of protesters clashed with police, in the Australian state of Victoria yesterday, as frustration over an ongoing COVID-19 lock-down boiled over.
In the capital city of Melbourne, 74 people were arrested and 176 infringement notices issued, for violating lock-down regulations, which require residents to remain at home other than for essential reasons.
Roughly 250 people attended the largest demonstration at Queen Victoria Market, with many in the crowd becoming aggressive towards officers, and one person charged with assaulting police.
A spokesperson for Victoria Police said, as long as it remains unlawful for residents to leave their homes to protest, those who do will be held accountable.
“It was extremely disappointing to see people not just protesting, but putting the lives of other Victorians at risk, despite all the warnings,” the spokesperson said.
Victoria remained in stage 4 lock-down for roughly the past six weeks, with restrictions expected to last for at least another month.
Premier Daniel Andrews said, despite the difficulties involved and impact on residents and the economy, maintaining strict social distancing was the only way to contain the virus.
Today, Victoria recorded a further 35 cases — the lowest number in a 24-hour period since late June.– NNN-AGENCIES
