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Anti-lockdown protesters planning more illegal ’freedom’ rallies

Organisers are once again trying to recruit as many people to protest against stage four lockdown in Melbourne this weekend, with protesters going underground to spread their message in a desperate attempt to keep police on their toes.

Victoria police arrest 74 protesters in anti-lockdown rally

Anti-lockdown protesters are again planning illegal “freedom” rallies this weekend, with many trying to evade police scrutiny by concealing their online identities.

Encrypted message threads are running hot in a desperate attempt to keep police on their toes after two consecutive weekends of violent clashes with the force.

Organisers are trying to recruit as many people to gather and protest against stage four lockdown in Melbourne on both Saturday and Sunday.

One chat group seen by the Herald Sun is steadily increasing in size with more than 600 enthusiasts subscribing for the encrypted details.

A flyer for the event
A flyer for the event
Protesters are trying to keep the location secret for now.
Protesters are trying to keep the location secret for now.

“If you’re keen on big numbers, Saturday is the one for you,” the protest organiser said.

“We’re also bringing you Sunday Surprise 2.0 – which will be like nothing you’ve ever seen in Victoria before.

“It’ll be peaceful, in the middle ring of Melbourne, and a lower risk from a fines perspective.

“It’ll also make a huge impact on social media.

Protesters walk through the streets of the city last weekend. Picture: Darrian Traynor/Getty Images
Protesters walk through the streets of the city last weekend. Picture: Darrian Traynor/Getty Images

“Come to one, come to both – we’ll be with you all the way, getting YOU the info you need to safely bring an END to the lockdowns.”

Saturday’s protest location will be announced at 11.30am for a 12pm start.

“Be ready to move in fast,” an advert for the protest says.

Protesters hold up signs outside Queen Victoria Market on Sunday. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Geraghty
Protesters hold up signs outside Queen Victoria Market on Sunday. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Geraghty
Ugly scenes unfold at Queen Victoria Market on Sunday.
Ugly scenes unfold at Queen Victoria Market on Sunday.
Police detained a number of protesters on Sunday
Police detained a number of protesters on Sunday

“It is going to be a nice 25C. Some members of society will choose to be dressed in all black armour, let’s see if we can change their minds and inspire them to rise up and put down their shields.”

Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Rick Nugent confirmed this morning on radio that the force was aware and ready for the protests.

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Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/truecrimeaustralia/police-courts/antilockdown-protesters-planning-more-illegal-freedom-rallies/news-story/8963a28ddb56891323b2296bc5ae95c8