Hundreds of demonstrators were urgently evacuated from an Invasion Day rally in Perth's central business district on Monday, following reports of a security threat that prompted a swift police response. WA Police moved people out of Forrest Place after receiving information that an object had been thrown into the crowd, leading to the establishment of an exclusion zone and the deployment of significant resources to the area.
Police Response and Public Warnings
Authorities confirmed they were responding to reports of a threat, with officers on the scene telling attendees, "this is not a drill" and warning of something in the area that "poses a risk to your safety." Police have taken one person into custody as part of their investigation, though details about the individual or the nature of the threat remain unclear at this stage.
Exclusion Zone and Safety Measures
An exclusion zone was quickly set up around Forrest Place, with members of the public advised to stay away from the area and await further updates. The evacuation was conducted as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of all participants and bystanders, highlighting the police's proactive approach to managing potential risks at large public gatherings.
The incident underscores the heightened tensions often surrounding Invasion Day events, which commemorate January 26 and draw both supporters and protesters. As the situation develops, authorities are expected to provide more information on the threat and the ongoing investigation.
