Four more Gaza protesters have been charged with offenses ranging from animal abuse to assaulting police after they let loose at the Melbourne, Australia Convention and Exhibition Centre, which was hosting a Land Forces Expo in September, Sky News reported Tuesday.
Melbourne police fought back the protesters who came to vent their displeasure over the exposition that featured the products of global armaments manufacturers who showcase and sell the latest defense equipment at the event. Sept. 11, the first day of the event, saw 89 people arrested or fined as they allegedly threw rocks, eggs, horse manure and a noxious smelling liquid that was reminiscent of vomit at police.The protesters are accused of spraying it and another liquid irritant directly at police officers while they upset their horses with plastic crates.
Police charged a man from Carlton North with six counts of assaulting police as well as abusing an animal. They allege he used a liquid irritant against four police officers on foot and another on horseback, who also received a load of horse manure.
Police charged another protester from Templestowe Lower with four counts of obstructing police and two counts of abusing an animal. A third man from Yarraville also stands charged with assaulting police, as well as tormenting/abusing an animal, intentionally obstructing police and discharging a missile.
Police obtained a search warrant to enter the home of a Mount Waverly and charged him with two counts of animal abuse and one of obstructing police and theft. While charging the man they also arrested a 22-year-old woman who was also found at the house, reportedly for growing marijuana. Police are still looking for eight more individuals associated with the riot that required 27 state and interstate police officers to seek medical attention.
The dozen horses affected by the protest were treated by police animal handlers and assessed as good to go back to work on the advice of a veterinarian.
