A highly visible and significant police presence will be in place across Canberra tomorrow as protests are expected to coincide with the controversial visit of the Israeli president Isaac Herzog.
Police say demonstrations are anticipated in and around the Parliamentary Triangle, with additional resources to be deployed to ensure community safety.
ACT Chief Police Officer Scott Lee said police respected the right to peaceful protest, but would act where laws were broken or public safety was put at risk.
“We respect people’s right to peacefully protest however where actions break laws or are a danger to public safety – including the safety of other protestors – our officers will respond to these incidents,” he said.
“We will have a significant and dedicated police presence, including those from AFP Protection and Specialist Operations, on Canberra’s streets during these protests to keep everyone in the community safe.
“Officers will not tolerate racial vilification or other criminal behaviour and they will take seriously and fully investigate any placards, signs or flags that breach hate laws.
“We are asking those in the community who plan to protest to do so peacefully and follow police directions.”
Police said traffic disruptions were expected on roads to and from Canberra Airport and in and around the Parliamentary Triangle. Travellers were advised to allow extra time to reach the airport and factor in possible delays.
Drivers caught in delayed traffic were reminded to obey police directions and not to break road rules, including crossing verges, paths or median strips.
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