Media Release - 6 July 2012 - For immediate use

IPCA Investigates Police Action at Blockade the Budget Protest

A complaint laid by the Blockade the Budget group regarding police action on the 1st of June is being investigated by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA). In the aftermath of the protest, the Blockade the Budget group were informed of numerous instances of Police brutality and general outrage at the unwarranted suppression of peaceful assembly on university grounds. After collecting evidence from a number of participants at the protest, the Blockade the Budget group laid an official complaint with the Authority. The complaint addressed the excessive use of force by the police during the protest and the right to freedom of speech, assembly and movement.

The Authority has decided to investigate the complaint directly, using its powers under s 17(1)(a) of the Independent Police Conduct Authority Act 1988, which reflects the importance of these issues.

Blockade the Budget will be continuing their protests against cuts to education across all sectors at 1pm on the 21st of July at Britomart.

ENDS

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