🚨 CBD Protest Sees 27 Arrests, OC Spray Deployed in Sydney

SYDNEY - A large-scale police operation was mounted in Sydney's Central Business District late on Monday, February 9, 2026, following a protest that drew thousands of participants and resulted in numerous arrests and the deployment of OC spray.

The demonstration commenced at Town Hall before the crowd moved onto George Street, signalling an intention to march. Police, comprising officers from across the metropolitan region and specialist units, issued several directions for the crowd to disperse. These directions were made in accordance with a Public Assembly Restriction Declaration (PARD) and powers under the Major Events Act.

When participants reportedly failed to comply, officers moved to disperse the gathering, particularly those obstructing pedestrian access. This led to scuffles, with 27 individuals arrested, including 10 for allegedly assaulting police. Paramedics were on hand to treat a number of participants after OC spray was deployed, though no serious injuries have been reported.

The incident occurred amidst heightened policing measures in Sydney. The Public Assembly Restriction Declaration (PARD) has been extended for parts of Sydney, including the CBD, following a declared terrorist incident in December 2025. This declaration restricts unauthorised public assemblies and removes certain protections for those obstructing traffic or pedestrians, allowing police to issue move-on directions [cite: NSW Police Force].

Additionally, the NSW Government had declared the Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit a "major event" under the Major Events Act 2009. This grants police enhanced powers for crowd management, including the ability to direct people to move on, close specific areas, and impose fines of up to $5,500 for non-compliance [cite: SBS News]. The application of the Major Events Act to a dignitary's visit, particularly one generating protest, has drawn legal challenges and controversy, as the Act explicitly states it cannot declare a political demonstration or protest as a major event [cite: The Guardian].

NSW Police officers are authorised and trained in the use of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) spray for situations involving the protection of human life, crowd control, or where violent resistance is anticipated. While a tool for police, its use in public gatherings has previously prompted debate regarding freedom of assembly [cite: Sydney Criminal Lawyers].

Further details regarding tonight's operation are expected to be released by authorities.