Mal Lanyon

Mal Lanyon is the New South Wales Police Commissioner. He is currently newsworthy due to the controversy surrounding police handling of protests, particularly those related to the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog. Lanyon implemented restrictions on protests in Sydney, citing community safety concerns following the Bondi attack and potential for public safety incidents. These restrictions effectively banned marches in designated areas and led to arrests. The restrictions were later lifted after Herzog's departure. His actions have drawn criticism from various groups, including Muslim organizations, who are demanding an apology after police disrupted a prayer during a protest. The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) is investigating alleged police brutality at the Herzog protests. Lanyon has defended the police actions, stating they were 'required' to disperse crowds. The NSW government also invoked special powers to restrict protests during the visit. Lanyon also extended protest restrictions for Invasion Day, but narrowed the area covered.