The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) has announced it will launch an independent inquiry into allegations of police brutality during a pro-Palestine protest in Sydney on Monday evening. This decision comes despite objections from the New South Wales premier, Chris Minns, who has publicly backed the police response.
Investigation into Alleged Misconduct
The watchdog stated on Friday that it received a significant number of complaints regarding the police operation at Sydney Town Hall and surrounding areas on February 9, 2026. In a formal statement, the LECC declared it is in the public interest to investigate incidents of alleged misconduct by NSW police officers against protesters.
The commission will examine all available evidence, including video footage, phone recordings, documents, and records held by the NSW police force. As part of the investigative process, the LECC will conduct hearings and ultimately provide a public report to the NSW parliament detailing its findings.
Controversial Police Tactics Under Scrutiny
During the protest against Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit, police employed controversial tactics that have drawn widespread criticism. Officers were observed pepper spraying demonstrators and using kettling techniques to confine large groups of protesters.
Videos from the rally show police officers repeatedly punching some individuals and dragging away Muslims who were engaged in prayer outside the town hall. The sheikh leading the prayer described the police behavior as "unhinged and aggressive," while police commissioner Mal Lanyon offered only a limited apology "for any offence that may have been taken."
Political Backlash and Injuries
The decision to investigate comes amid growing political pressure. Rally organizers, Labor backbenchers, and Green MPs have accused Premier Minns and police of creating an "unsafe situation" for protest attendees. This criticism intensified following reports that a 69-year-old woman was hospitalized with broken vertebrae after allegedly being pushed to the ground by police.
Premier Minns has consistently defended the police actions, rejecting calls for an independent inquiry and dismissing suggestions that his anti-protest restrictions placed officers in an "impossible situation" when dealing with thousands of demonstrators.
Broader Context and Implications
The protest occurred in the shadow of recent tensions, including the Bondi beach terror attack, adding complexity to the security response. The LECC investigation will now determine whether police conduct crossed legal boundaries during the emotionally charged demonstration.
This inquiry represents a significant test for police accountability in New South Wales and could have implications for how future protests are policed, particularly those involving international diplomatic visits and sensitive geopolitical issues.
