On Friday, New Zealand police said they will not forcibly clear anti-vaccine protestors camped behind parliament in Wellington, citing a desire not to incite violence on the streets of the city.
After an attempt to seize control of the grounds late last week led in violent fights and 120 arrests, police have taken a hands-off stance.
As protest cars blocked downtown roadways for the 11th day, Commissioner Andrew Coster recognized growing frustration among Wellington residents and business owners.
Despite the fact that the number of people sitting outside the legislature continues to grow, he asserted that conversation with the demonstrators’ leaders was achieving beneficial results.
“Police enforcement action poses a significant risk of public injury, an increase in the number of persons involved, and a shift from a largely peaceful protest to violence,” Coster added.
“At this time, the only safe choice, in our opinion, is to maintain a focus on de-escalation.”
Inspired by Canada’s “Freedom Convoy,” the demonstrators clogged roads with cars, trucks, and campervans early last week, then set up camp on parliament’s lawns.
