Three people have been charged following an unauthorised protest at Sandgate today, NSW Police say.
About 6.15am (Monday 3 September 2018), police from Newcastle City Police District were called to Tourle Street Rail Crossover following reports of protest activity.
Officers attended and arrested two women – aged 20 and 24 – and a 32-year-old man.
The older woman and man were charged with enter inclosed lands interferes with, or attempts or intends to interfere with, the conduct of the business or undertaking and cause obstruction to railway locomotive or rolling stock.
The younger woman was charged with enter inclosed land or not prescribed premises without lawful excuse and cause obstruction to railway locomotive or rolling stock.
They were all granted conditional bail and are due to appear at Newcastle Local Court on Thursday 4 October 2018.
Newcastle City Police District Commander Superintendent Brett Greentree, said public safety is the first priority when it comes to protest activity.
"We support the rights of individuals and groups to protest peacefully, but not when it impedes on their safety and the safety of others," Supt Greentree said.
"Entering a rail corridor is extremely dangerous and it’s lucky no one was seriously injured in the incident."
