Pro-Palestine protest gets out of hand
Victoria Police are investigating a dreadful incident at a Starbucks café in the Melbourne CBD on New Year’s Eve.
A barista was allegedly spat at by a pro-Palestine protestor as other demonstrators reportedly stole merchandise from the café.
The demonstration, which is part of an ongoing campaign of pro-Palestine protests in the CBD, at least weekly, usually on Sundays. The incident occurred on Swanston Street, where the Starbucks was targeted. The café was open late, and four staff members were working on the premises at the time of the incident. Victoria Police received reports that a group of people went inside the Starbucks store about 10pm.
Victoria Police stated, “Officers arrived a short time later and were told by staff that a number of people had attended the store making anti-Israel chants. A number of people in the group then stole items from the store and left without paying.”
“Further enquires have been made by police and a report of spitting has officially been made.”
Dr Dvir Abramovich, Chairman of the Anti-Defamation Commission said that this “brazen assault” was a slap in the face to everyone in Melbourne who were celebrating New Year’s Eve.
Abramovich said, “This is Melbourne, not the wild west.”
“Spitting on innocent staff, looting merchandise, and hurling anti-Israel chants is the behaviour of bullies who thrive on spreading fear and chaos.
“These actions are an affront to every Melburnian who cherishes our shared commitment to unity and mutual respect.
“This wasn’t just about Starbucks. It was a calculated attempt to intimidate and provoke fear under the guise of protest, and let me say this loud and clear: We will not be cowed. We will not be bullied. We will not let extremists hijack our streets or shatter our harmony with their hate-filled agenda.”
The Starbucks café reportedly has not had any incidents previously due to the pro-Palestine protests. Starbucks has denied having any link to Israel.
Starbucks told J-Wire, “We are deeply concerned about the incident at the Starbucks store during last night’s New Year’s Eve protest in Melbourne’s CBD. All our partners (Starbucks employees) and customers are safe, and we are working closely with Victoria Police who are investigating the incident.”
“The safety and well-being of our partners (employees) and customers remains our top priority, and we are committed to their welfare.”
Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece told J-Wire, “We are extremely disappointed by reports that some individuals have chosen intimidation and aggression. Their actions do not represent Melbourne.”
“Everyone deserves to feel safe when they visit the city, no matter their ethnicity, gender or religion. There is no room for racism, vilification or discrimination in our city.
“Melbourne will continue to shine as a city of peace and love, where all faiths, cultures and peoples have a home. We stand proudly in solidarity and love with our Jewish community.”
The police investigation is ongoing and anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to provide details to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
