Victorian Police is conducting an investigation into the actions of up to 50 protestors who ambushed officers during the Midsumma Pride LGBT parade on Jan. 4. At the time, 100 police officers were marching in the event without arms, including sworn officers, the pipe band, public servants, and protective services officers. The demonstrators, a group wearing masks as shown in video footage, threw paintballs and yelled abuse, including the term “queer killers.”
Chief Commissioner Shane Patton also condemned the actions of the group and stated that it was a “premeditated attack” on members of the police at the event in St Kilda.
One 34-year-old man has been arrested in connection to the incident.
Despite all this, Victoria’s Police Minister Anthony Carbines condemned the actions of the group as unacceptable, stressing that there’s no excuse for such behavior.
Police are still reviewing the footage and determining if any further action is required.
The behavior of the demonstrators was described as “ugly” by Victorian Opposition leader John Pesutto. However, Chief Commissioner Patton had nothing but contempt for the demonstrators, referring to them as an “ugly rabble” and stating that their intent in the confrontation was very clear and premeditated.
Midsumma Festival CEO Karen Bryant reportedly said that the event was escalated by both sides, but Chief Commissioner Patton disputed this claim and indicated that police had shown a high level of restraint. He explained that police officers were subjected to threats and paint thrown at them and that the response teams were under immense pressure to hold back before the situation escalated further.
Overall, the Pride March presented a vibrant display of rainbow pride, the organizers stated on February 3rd.