Covid New Zealand – Anti-vaccine protestors claimed success Wednesday after police failed to clear vehicles obstructing the streets outside parliament, resulting in a new high of 19 illnesses.
Health authorities recorded 1,160 new coronavirus cases, the most since the epidemic began, as the Omicron variety continues to spread in a country that was largely virus-free until August.
Despite the fact that just 53 people have died as a result of the virus in this five-million-strong country, some demonstrators have taken to the streets to denounce Covid-related restrictions and a government vaccination program.
Last week, demonstrators inspired by Canada’s “Freedom Convoy” clogged roads with cars, trucks, and campervans before setting up overnight on the lawns of parliament in Wellington.
Apart from violent fights last Thursday that resulted in the arrest of 122 protestors, a tense standoff in the city center has lasted nine days, with police mostly taking a hands-off attitude.
Late Tuesday, though, law enforcement officials escalated their tone, calling the protests “untenable” and threatening to use tow trucks to clear the streets.
Police Commissioner Andrew Coster claimed he had requested military assistance and warned that anyone who interfered with the “imminent” operation will be arrested.
