‘Convoy to Canberra’ protesters sprayed with pepper spray, arrested outside National Library

The so-called convoy to Canberra set up camp outside the library several days ago as part of a protest against the vaccination mandate.

At 4 p.m., police told protesters they were parking and camping illegally and would be fined if they stayed in the area.

ACT Police have confirmed that a woman was arrested after allegedly assaulting officers. She has since been charged.

When two men allegedly interfered with the arrest of the woman, they were also arrested and charged with obstructing the police.

Two people were treated for minor injuries by paramedics, but they were not taken to hospital.

“The right of people to protest peacefully is always recognized by ACT Police, but where unlawful actions take place, those responsible will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” an ACT spokesperson said in a statement.

Protesters were seen yelling at police while others were handcuffed and arrested.

A police officer was seen kneeling a protester as he was tackled to the ground by another officer.

Although largely a protest against the vaccine mandate, the convoy protest to Canberra is linked to the ‘sovereign citizens’ movement.

Sovereign citizens are people who believe they are not subject to many Australian laws.