Australia: Hundreds of cannabis supporters attend picnic rally, 36 arrested at Melbourne park
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Victorian MP’s David Limbrick of the Libertarian Party, Georgie Purcell of the Animal Justice Party, Rachel Payne and David Ettershank of Legalise Cannabis Australia and Aiv Puglielli of The Greens. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Ian Currie
Grist for the mill for the police and News International
At least 36 people were arrested at an annual pro-cannabis picnic at Melbourne’s Flagstaff Gardens.
The rally in the city’s CBD aims to raise awareness for the legalisation of cannabis, and occurs annually on April 20 or 4/20. Recreational use of which is banned in all Australian states.
About 250 people attended the event, and police dog units and local officers were on the ground searching attendees.
A total of 36 offenders were arrested and processed for drug related offending.
Most were issued with cautions and four will receive a summons to attend court at a later date.
“While we respect the right for lawful and peaceful protests, we will not tolerate any criminal activity,” a police spokesperson said.
“It is our role to enforce the law.”
This year’s event, featuring the slogan “Who are we hurting?”, included state MPs from the Legalize Cannabis Australia Party.
Western Metro Region MP David Ettershank and South-East Metro MP Rachel Payne indicated they would be attending the rally.
In a post to her Instagram on Saturday, Ms Payne called for an “end to the prohibition” adjoined with a picture of what appeared to be a lit cigarette.
“Looking forward to catching up with the canna (cannabis) community today,” she said.
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