Tensions have flared at a pro-Palestine rally with police using pepper spray to control protesters who they say turned violent, hurling bottles and signs at officers.
Background: Around 3,000 people attended the Free Palestine rally in Melbourne on Sunday, the 35th consecutive week demonstrators have hit the streets to voice their opposition to Israel's invasion of Gaza.
Public order response team members deployed pepper spray after protesters surrounded police on Bourke Street, having previously detained a man following a march.
It is understood demonstrators then attended a police station on Bourke Street to demand an apology for the use of pepper spray.
At least one flare was lit during the rally, while protesters flew Palestinian flags and held signs with messages including 'Free Palestine' and 'Ceasefire Now'.
Victoria Police issued a statement supporting the right to protest peacefully but condemning the "hostile and disgusting behaviour" at the protest.
Police then discharged pepper spray to disperse the group and one officer "was spat on during the ugly encounter" while two police vehicles were damaged.
The key quote: "The group was extremely hostile and turned violent, throwing bottles and signs at police." - Victoria Police
What happens now: No arrests were made but police would be reviewing footage of the confrontation to identify offenders.
