Nathan Bull, Michael ‘Mickle’ Nelson under investigation for Nazi salute

Two baby-faced men who often perform the Nazi salute in Melbourne CBD are being investigated by police – but that hasn’t stopped one from boasting about it online.

Michael Nelson and Nathan Bull are under investigation for performing the Nazi salute. Picture: Martin Keep

Two baby-faced neo-Nazis are being investigated by Victoria Police after performing the Nazi salute during a protest in Melbourne CBD on Sunday.

Nathan Bull and Michael ‘Mickle’ Nelson, both known members of the National Socialist Network, were seen smiling and laughing while performing the salute surrounded by at least four police officers outside the State Library of Victoria.

The pair, wearing red T-shirts displaying the words ‘6 million’ and ‘that’s a bit much mate’, were eventually moved on from the area by police.

But in a turn of events, Victoria Police have launched an investigation into the two, probing whether any offences were committed during Sunday’s incident.

Two men who performed the Nazi salute were quickly moved on. Picture: Martin Keep

“The investigation relates to two males who were reported to be doing the Nazi salute,” a Victoria Police statement said.

“Police are now investigating to determine whether any offences were committed as part of the Racial and Religious Tolerance Act, as well as any other associated offences.”

The Herald Sun understands the pair regularly attend similar events alongside notorious NSN leader Thomas Sewell and other young members.

Nelson – who goes by the online username of ‘autisticincel’ – was once known for his “Christian fundamentalist” views who often attended anti-lockdown protests.

Nathan Bull, 21, has become a familiar face among crowds at neo-Nazi protests across Melbourne. Picture: supplied

Previous media reports stated Nelson was further radicalised into white nationalism in recent years before joining the National Socialist Network.

He has since taken to Twitter to boast of Sunday’s horrendous display, resharing images of them surrounded by police alongside the caption: “Thanks for the pics”.

Clips also shared on social media by Nelson, believed to be in his early twenties, show the man dancing bizarrely as he gazes into the camera lens, captioning it “I love Christmas, I love Gods, it’s time for Church.”

The once-mulleted Bull, 21, has been a familiar face at neo-Nazi protests across Melbourne, regularly opting for an arrogant smirk instead of a face mask – unlike fellow NSN members.

Michael 'Mickle' Nelson often reveals his identity at Melbourne protests. Picture: supplied

neo-Nazi Michael 'Mickle' Nelson was previously known for his religious and alleged anti-vaxxer views. Picture: supplied

Last month, the duo were among a group of neo-Nazis who abandoned their anti-immigration protest at state parliament when they were rushed by counter-protesters and forced to flee for safety into Fitzroy Gardens.

Both Bull and Nelson, accompanied by Mr Sewell, were among only a few of the dozen neo-Nazis to reveal their identities despite being surrounded by media.

Dr Dvir Abramovich, chair of the Anti-Defamation Commission, called on state government to fast-track banning the salute after announcing in January its potential outlawing.

“It is an outrage that those inflamed with virulent antisemitism, who are using this evil gesture as a rallying cry to intimidate and terrorise the community still have the law on their side,” he said.

Neo-Nazis Michael Nelson and Nathan Bull. Picture: supplied

“The Victorian government led the way in being the first Australian jurisdiction to ban the public display of the Nazi swastika and now and by criminalising the salute will right a wrong, take the high moral ground and to close the lid on this ugly phenomenon.

“Neo-Nazism is alive in Melbourne as white supremacists openly and proudly give the terrifying salute that celebrates Hitler’s monstrous legacy, and the indescribable crimes committed by his regimen.”