April 17, 2019
Eleven people have been charged in relation to recent animal activist protests near Millmerran and Warwick.
Detectives from the Major and Organised Crime Squad (Rural), State Crime Command, together with officers from the Darling Downs, Moreton, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast arrested 11 people following investigations into the alleged trespassing incidents.
The people were arrested at locations across south-east Queensland on Tuesday afternoon and overnight and will face 18 charges, including unlawfully entering farming land (trespass) and drug offences.
A 29-year-old woman and 26-year-old man were previously charged with unlawfully entering farming land (trespass) on April 5 and were bailed to appear in the Toowoomba Magistrates Court on May 9.
Detective Superintendent Jon Wacker said the charges followed formal complaints from the owners of properties targeted by unauthorised protests.
“The Queensland Police Service respects the right of people to protest in a peaceful manner, however we have a duty to ensure the safety of protesters, farm workers and property owners,” Det Supt Wacker said.
“Unauthorised protests in and around farmlands and industrial areas create significant personal and workplace safety risks.
“We will take enforcement action whenever necessary to ensure the safety of the community and to protect the rights of people to feel safe in their homes and at their place of work.”
Investigations are continuing.
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