Alleged neo-Nazis march on Melbourne refugee protest camp, dispersed by police

A group of counter-protesters allegedly chanting ‘Australia for the white man’ at a refugee protest camp have been dispersed by police | WATCH

Victoria police were filmed deploying what seemed to be capsicum spray on counter-protesters clad in black. Picture: NewsWire / Diego Fedele

A conflict between black-clad men and police has broken out on the fringes of a refugee protest encampment, with the dispersed protesters alleged to be neo-Nazis.

Police can be seen spraying over a dozen men in all black outfits with capsicum spray in a video released to social media by two pro-Palestine affiliate groups: Free Palestine Coalition Naarm and Unionists for Palestine.

The alleged neo-Nazi contingent is driven down a cleared street as protesters cheer from the sidelines.

“Officers formed a line to separate the two groups before they were forced to deploy OC spray,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said.

“The groups dispersed and there were no arrests or reports of injuries.

“Police will assess the circumstances surrounding the demonstration and review vision of the incident and people involved.”

The Closing Refugee Encampment Rally was held at 808 Bourke Street, Docklands on the border of Melbourne’s CBD. The counter-protest group was alleged to have chanted “Australia for the White Man” before police forced them away. Victoria Police estimated there were an estimated 300 protestors who gathered from 5pm before the opposing contingent of about 20 counter-protestors arrived at 6pm.

The refugee encampment has occupied Melbourne for a hundred days to demand permanent visas.

“A large group of neo-Nazis descended upon the refugee justice protest in Melbourne an hour ago, declaring “Australia for the White Man”,” the post reads.

“They were pushed away by refugees and the solidarity community who represent what we should be standing for, decency, care, collective strength. The rally has marched through the CBD and is continuing.

The neo-Nazis so far have retreated. The policies of the Australian government enact Australia as for the White Man, emboldening direct attacks on refugees who should not be used for political football. Shame Australia shame. Permanent Visas Now.”