Photo: Nine News.
Two men have been charged following protest activity in Brisbane’s CBD this morning.
Police say that just before 7.30am, the pair allegedly hired a truck and drove it to the intersection of Queen and Edward streets, where they limbed on to the roof of the truck to conduct their demonstration.
“During the course of the demonstration, the pair allegedly produced a ‘lock on’ device to resist attempts of emergency services to safely remove them,” Queensland Police said in a statement.
“Specialist resources from partner agencies were engaged to bring the men down safely and into police custody around 9am.”
A 21-year-old Pelican Waters man has been charged with two counts of contravene direction and one count each of pedestrians caused an obstruction and obstruct police officer.
A 28-year-old Dutton Park man has been charged with pedestrians caused an obstruction, contravene direction and obstruct police officer.
Both men appeared in Brisbane Magistraes Court this afternoon and are due to reappear on Feburary 23.
“Police are currently monitoring future protest activity and stand ready to respond accordingly,” QPS said.
Acting Superintendent David Morganti says while police acknowledge the right for people to protest lawfully, causing disruption to the community going about their normal business is not acceptable.
“It’s disappointing to see demostrators refusing to work with police to express their point of view lawfully and with a blatant disregard to disruption to the community,” Acting Superintendent David Morganti said.
“Police will continue to support the right for lawful and peaceful protest, however will respond appropriately when offences are committed and the public’s right to go about their business is interfered with.”
