By Abdul Kimera
Hundreds of protesters on Saturday marched on several roads and streets due to the continued lockdowns authorities impose to curb the spread of the corona virus delta variant.
These angry protesters first hit the roads in chaotic demonstrations on August 21 which also caused a standstill of businesses across several cities in the country.
Though Shane Patton the chief commissioner said earlier this week that according to their intelligence thousands are planning to attend Saturday’s protests, he confirmed that they will do everything they can to prevent them from accessing the city.
According to commander Mark Galliot of Victoria police, 235 people have been arrested with 193 facing fines for breaching directives of the chief health officer and others will face charges of assault, riotous behavior, weapons and drug offenses.
Mr Galliot also added that 10 police officers were also hurt in the protests of which six of them where hospitalized due to minor injuries.
Police used capsicum spray to control protestors who walked up bridge road and then turned down Burnley street where the rally finally stopped and they sat in the middle of the street.
Earlier in the day police made efforts to curb the protests by issuing strict orders on who should be entering the CBD and also checking IDs and permits of every motorists trying to access the city centre.
Over 2000 police officers were deployed. Protestors hurled projectiles and abuse at authorities.
Australia is one of the countries that are currently battling with the delta variant and a record high in daily positive cases.
Authorities say restrictions are to remain in place until at-least 70% of those aged 16 years and above are fully vaccinated.
