Police want help to identify woman from Murwillumbah protest

Two officers experienced an “immediate burning sensation” after the alleged incident at a protest rally.

Police were allegedly sprayed with an unknown substance during an anti-lockdown protest earlier this week.

They have released an image of a woman they want to speak to in relation to the incident.
Officers from the Tweed/Byron district attended Knox Park at Murwillumbah on Tuesday in response to an unauthorised protest.

They spoke with several people in relation to potential breaches of the Public Health Order and attempted to arrest a woman.

“During the arrest, the crowd became hostile towards police, attempting to obstruct officers,” a police spokesperson said.

They said a second woman approached police and sprayed an “unknown substance” in the face of two male senior constables.

“This caused an immediate burning sensation for the officers and the woman left,” police said.

The officers did not require hospital treatment and they decontaminated themselves.

As their inquiries continue, police have released an image of a woman they believe may be able to assist with their investigations.

“The woman depicted is described as being of caucasian appearance, with brown shoulder length hair.

“She is wearing a light-coloured cardigan and a pink patterned dress.”

Anyone who may be able to assist with the inquiries – or has mobile phone footage of the protest activity – has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers through the online portal or by contacting 1800 333 000.

Police are following up every report, reviewing body worn vision and mobile phone vision to identify any further offences during unauthorised protest activity.

Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.