Melbourne's city centre descended into chaos on Sunday as violent clashes between anti-immigration protesters and counter-demonstrators left a trail of injuries and destruction, with multiple police officers among the wounded.
City Centre Transformed into Battlefield
The typically bustling streets of central Melbourne became a scene of turmoil as hundreds of anti-immigration activists gathered for what organisers called a "patriotic rally." They were met by an equally determined group of counter-protesters, leading to explosive confrontations that required a massive police response.
Victoria Police confirmed that several officers sustained injuries while attempting to separate the warring factions. One officer was reportedly struck by a projectile, while others suffered various injuries during the physical altercations that erupted throughout the afternoon.
Violent Escalation and Police Response
Witnesses described scenes of unprecedented violence as the two groups clashed near key landmarks. Protesters from both sides were seen throwing objects, while physical fights broke out despite police efforts to maintain separation.
"The situation escalated rapidly from shouting matches to physical violence," said one bystander who witnessed the events unfold. "Police were clearly overwhelmed at times by the sheer intensity of the confrontations."
Multiple Arrests Made
Authorities have confirmed making numerous arrests as they worked to restore order. Police used crowd control measures and established exclusion zones to prevent further violence, but the situation remained volatile for several hours.
The protests have highlighted the deepening divisions within Australian society regarding immigration policy, with tensions reaching boiling point on Melbourne's streets. Community leaders have called for calm, while politicians from across the spectrum have condemned the violence.
Aftermath and Community Impact
Local businesses were forced to close early as the violence spread, with some reporting property damage. Public transport routes were disrupted throughout the central business district, causing widespread inconvenience for residents and visitors alike.
Victoria Police have launched a full investigation into the events and are reviewing footage from multiple sources to identify those responsible for the violence and attacks on officers.
The incident represents one of the most serious outbreaks of protest-related violence in Melbourne in recent years, raising serious questions about community cohesion and the escalating nature of political demonstrations in Australia.
