A critical incident has been declared by NSW Police following the arrest of Hannah Thomas, a former Greens candidate, during a pro-Palestine protest in Belmore, Sydney. Thomas, who previously ran against Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for the Grayndler seat, sustained significant eye injuries resulting in potential permanent vision loss in one eye.
The incident, which has raised considerable concern, took place on Friday outside SEC Plating on Lakemba Street. Thomas indicated her injuries were severe enough to trigger a level two critical incident investigation, which was initiated after police obtained medical records from her lawyer.
The investigation will be conducted by Campbelltown City Police Area Command and will be reviewed by the Professional Standards Command, under the oversight of the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission. In a social media video, Thomas described the protest as “peaceful” and revealed the traumatic nature of her arrest, emphasising her small stature and weight, which she believes contributed to the disproportionate force used by police.
Moreover, she has openly criticised recent “draconian” laws introduced by Premier Chris Minns and Police Minister Yasmin Catley, which expand police powers to disperse protests, particularly near places of worship. Thomas accused these new laws of emboldening police to act with “extreme violence and brutality,” despite warnings these changes could lead to dangerous confrontations.
SEC Plating has been alleged by protesters to provide parts for F-35 jets used by the Israeli Defence Forces, a claim the company denies. Thomas’s attorney shared deep concerns that such laws infringe on the right to protest, suggesting police felt empowered to disregard this right in their actions during the demonstration.
NSW Greens MP Sue Higginson wrote to Premier Minns urging him to drop all charges against Thomas, asserting that the police used excessive force rather than lawful policing methods. In contrast, Minns and Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden defended the police actions, contending that the existing legal framework was properly applied, pointing out that they believe the protest was unauthorised and obstructed public access.
As a result of the confrontation, Thomas faces charges, including resisting police and failing to comply with dispersal orders, and is due to appear in Bankstown Local Court later this year. Thomas’s case continues to highlight the ongoing tensions around police handling of protests in New South Wales and the implications of new legislation.