Violence shattered Melbourne's streets as a mob of neo-Nazis launched a coordinated attack on a peaceful Indigenous sovereignty camp, leaving multiple police officers injured in one of the city's most disturbing racial confrontations in recent memory.
Chaos Erupts in City Centre
The confrontation began when approximately 50 masked individuals, identified as white supremacists, descended upon the Camp Sovereignty site near the Shrine of Remembrance. Armed with makeshift weapons and shouting racial slurs, the group attempted to storm the Indigenous gathering in what witnesses described as a premeditated assault.
Police Officers Targeted
Victoria Police officers responding to the scene found themselves under direct attack from the violent mob. Multiple law enforcement personnel sustained injuries during the confrontation as they attempted to separate the warring groups and protect the Indigenous activists. The extent of the officers' injuries remains undisclosed, though authorities confirmed several required medical attention.
Background of Tensions
The targeted Camp Sovereignty has been established as a site of Indigenous cultural significance and political protest. The neo-Nazi group, reportedly organized through encrypted messaging platforms, had been mobilizing support for an anti-immigration rally when they diverted to attack the Indigenous site.
"This was a planned political violence targeting both First Nations people and those who protect them," stated a police spokesperson during a press conference following the incident.
Community Response and Condemnation
Political leaders and community representatives have universally condemned the attack, describing it as an alarming escalation of far-right extremism in Australia. The Victorian government has promised a thorough investigation into the incident, with considerations for enhanced security measures at sites of cultural significance.
Indigenous elders from the camp expressed gratitude for the police protection but highlighted growing concerns about their safety in the face of rising extremist activities across the country.
Ongoing Investigation
Victoria Police have launched a major investigation into the incident, reviewing CCTV footage and social media content to identify the perpetrators. Authorities have urged witnesses to come forward as they work to prevent further outbreaks of racial violence in the community.
