The New South Wales Police Commissioner, Mal Lanyon, made a last-minute attempt to hold hearings regarding Sydney's anti-Herzog protest behind closed doors, which has delayed the ongoing inquiry, according to the police watchdog. The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) announced that its investigation into the protest that took place on February 9 at Sydney's town hall will proceed this month with a combination of public and private examinations.

Background of the Inquiry

The inquiry was initiated following widespread allegations of police brutality during the protest, which resulted in injuries to numerous protesters, including individuals in their 70s and 80s, as well as 10 police officers. Viral video footage captured police using force against multiple protesters and detaining Muslim worshippers during their sunset prayers.

Charges and Legal Proceedings

In the months following the protest, 30 individuals were charged, although four of those charges have since been dropped. More than 20 of the charged individuals are scheduled to face a joint hearing next July.

Commissioner Lanyon's Request

In a decision made public on Thursday, Peter Johnson SC, the chief commissioner of LECC, revealed that Lanyon's legal representatives indicated for the first time on September 9 that he wished to be heard regarding the public and private examinations. This request came less than two weeks before the public hearings were set to begin between September and November.