Man arrested following antisemitic protest in Melbourne

Melbourne Crime Investigation Unit investigators have arrested a man who allegedly led an antisemitic protest in Melbourne’s CBD last Friday evening.

Police were called to reports that up to 20 people, dressed in black and holding a banner allegedly displaying an antisemitic sign, were protesting on the steps of Parliament House just before 7pm on Friday 20 December.

When police arrived, the protest group fled towards the Fitzroy Gardens.

Responding officers were told members of the public who were present were outraged and verbally showed their disgust to the protestors.

A police investigation immediately commenced and a search warrant seeking evidence was executed at a home in Wantirna South on Monday 23 December.

A number of items were seized during the search.

Investigators arrested a 29-year-old Wantirna South man after he presented at a police station about 7.40pm on 23 December.

The man was interviewed in relation to grossly offensive public conduct, Racial and Religious Tolerance Act offences and offensive behaviour.

The man was released whilst a brief of evidence is prepared and the proposed charges are submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions for approval, as required under the Racial and Religious Tolerances Act legislation.

This investigation remains ongoing while police work to identify others involved in the protest.

Victoria Police vehemently condemns antisemitic or racially motivated behaviour in our society and will not tolerate this kind of activity.

Anyone with information that can assist police, or who has CCTV, or dashcam is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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