UPDATE: Neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell was arrested outside the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Tuesday afternoon, as police responded to tensions surrounding a recent incident involving his group, the National Socialist Network (NSN). Footage shows multiple officers detaining Sewell and another NSN member amid rising public outrage.
The arrest is linked to a violent attack on the sacred Indigenous burial site Camp Sovereignty this past Sunday, where around 50 NSN members swarmed the area, resulting in scuffles with local residents. Witnesses reported chaotic scenes at Kings Domain parkland, with Sewell allegedly seen throwing punches during the altercation.
Earlier on Tuesday, Sewell disrupted a press conference held by Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan. He confronted Allan, questioning the government’s alleged restrictions on public protests. “Why don’t Australians have the right to protest?” he shouted, while being restrained by security personnel. Allan and her team quickly exited the scene.
In response to the incident, Premier Allan released a statement emphasizing her commitment to protecting vulnerable communities. “It’s no surprise that Nazis oppose me and my government. I wear that as a badge of honour,” she asserted. “We know how these goons operate. They whip up fear to divide our society. They will fail.”
Allan highlighted the imminent implementation of new anti-hate laws aimed at safeguarding multicultural communities, LGBTIQA+ individuals, First Peoples, and Jewish residents. “They’re the Victorians who are on my mind right now,” she stated, reaffirming her dedication to fighting against hate.
This developing story continues to unfold, with authorities expected to provide further updates on the legal proceedings against Sewell and his associates. As public sentiment shifts against extremist groups, community leaders and advocates are urging for increased vigilance and support for those targeted by hate.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
