Police are pleased with the behaviour of crowds attending ANZAC Day commemoration activities and events across NSW despite isolated incidents including a disturbance at the Martin Place dawn service, NSW Police say.
Operation Callway, a high-visibility policing strategy, was established to provide a safe and secure environment for ANZAC Day events throughout New South Wales.
In the Sydney CBD, police patrolled ceremonial areas to ensure the community could enjoy the day respectfully.
So far during the operation, six men have been arrested including a 32-year-old Merrylands man about 5.15am today at Martin Place, after he allegedly yelled offensively during the dawn service.
He was taken to Surry Hills Police Station and charged with behave in offensive manner in/near public place, and resist officer in execution of duty. The man was granted strict conditional bail to appear at the Downing Centre Local Court on Thursday 18 May 2017.
A 48-year-old man was arrested after allegedly committing an indecent act near a bus stop on Alfred Street just before 11.30am. He was taken to Day Street Police Station and charged with wilful and obscene exposure in/near public place, and breach of bail.
He was refused bail to appear at Central Local Court tomorrow.
A 49-year-old man was arrested about 10.45am at Hyde Park, after allegedly behaving inappropriately.
He was arrested and taken to Day Street Police Station where he was charged with assault officer in execution of duty. During the arrest, it’s alleged he spat at a male senior constable.
A 59-year-old man was arrested on the corner of Pitt and Bridge Streets and was taken to Day Street Police Station where he was charged with assault officer in execution of duty, and bicycle rider not stop at stop line at red light.
Both men, aged 49 and 59, were granted conditional bail to appear at the Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday 17 May 2017.
Operation Callaway Commander, Superintendent Mark Walton, said the vast majority of people showed respect towards each other and our returned service personnel.
"While police responded to a few isolated incidents, we saw tens of thousands of people paying their respects in Sydney respectfully," Superintendent Walton said.
"It’s disappointing to see some people causing disruptions on a day of national significance; however, they have all been dealt with accordingly."
"In a great show of the ANZAC spirit, large crowds cheered on veterans, their families and members of the community in services, marches and events across the State."
"For those of you who are still enjoying the day, I urge you to act responsibly, know your limits, and look out for your friends who may be intoxicated," Superintendent Walton said.
Operation Callaway will remain in force Statewide throughout the evening.
