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Arrests as police ask ‘Convoy to Canberra’ protesters to leave

Police have used capsicum spray and made a number of arrests as they sought to move on protesters camped near the National Library in Canberra.

Three people have been arrested by police as officers moved through the camp and issuing orders about 4pm on Wednesday.

An ACT police spokesman said one woman assaulted an officer and was arrested and charged.

Two men also tried to interfere with the woman’s arrest and were also arrested.

Both men were charged with obstructing police.

Paramedics were called to the scene to treat two people who had minor injuries, although no one was taken to hospital.

Police had attempted to hand written notices to the protesters advising them they were camping and parking illegally in the area and may be fined in the stayed.

It is the third day of an anti-vaccination mandate campaign, known as the Convoy to Canberra, which included a march on Parliament House on Monday and a rally outside the National Press Club on Tuesday where Prime Minister Scott Morrison was speaking.

The police spokesman said police were engaging with protesters and campers near the Patrick White Lawns next to the library.

“The rights of people to peacefully protest is always acknowledged by ACT Policing. However, when illegal actions take place, the people responsible will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” the spokesman said.

The National Capital Authority said it had asked the Australian Federal Police and ACT Policing to “take necessary action to enforce the laws and remove tents, camping infrastructure and vehicles from the site”.

Unauthorised camping is not permitted in the parliamentary precinct or NCA-managed lands.

Organisers of a number of upcoming events, which have official permits, are seeking to set up temporary facilities in the area.

Footage posted to social media showed rows of cars lined up on the grounds outside the Library.

The â€˜2022 Official Convoy to Canberra’ Facebook page has gained over 160,000 followers since being created on 25 January.

AAP

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