Sydney police to be investigated by watchdog after anti-Herzog protest violence

The New South Wales (NSW) Police watchdog, the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission, will investigate the conduct of Sydney police during a protest against Israeli President Isaac Herzog's visit on Monday. The investigation was launched after the commission received numerous complaints alleging police misconduct, including accusations of officers punching protesters and forcibly removing praying Muslim men. The NSW Police Commissioner previously defended the officers' actions, claiming they showed restraint. The commission will review video footage and conduct hearings before issuing a public report to the state parliament. Pro-Palestinian groups, who organized the protest, welcomed the investigation and criticized the police response, alleging excessive force and suppression of free expression. The Australian National Imams Council also condemned the police conduct and called for an apology.

The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) in NSW, Australia, will investigate alleged police brutality during a Sydney protest against Isaac Herzog's visit on February 9, 2026. The inquiry was launched after the LECC received numerous complaints regarding the police response at Sydney Town Hall. The investigation will examine video footage, documents, and other information to assess potential misconduct by NSW police officers. The LECC will hold hearings and provide a public report to the NSW parliament. While Premier Chris Minns supports the police actions, rally organizers and others have criticized the police tactics, including the use of pepper spray and kettling. The police commissioner has apologized for any offense caused by removing praying protesters.