Police Move on ‘Occupy Auckland’ Protesters
The New Zealand central city on Monday is filled with dozens of police and security guards who are moving on 'Occupy Auckland' protesters and breaking up their assembly.
An Auckland Council spokesman told the New Zealand Herald 'Occupy' tents and paraphernalia were being removed from camps at Aotea Square, Victoria Park, Albert Park and 360 Queen St.
After 101 days in assembly, the Auckland Council staff is now supported by about 20 to 30 police officers to clear Aotea Square, hoping to make the central city public space finally free of the campers.
The council has been to court to win the legal right to evict the protesters who stubbornly camped out in the area.
Police were seen gathering near the 'Occupy' assembly about 8am Monday, and merely observed while council workers and staff from private security company Red Badge Security took down tents, rousing some occupiers from sleep, the Herald reported.
During the removal procedure, the council asked occupiers for their names before issuing to them council notices saying their law violations.
Still, some occupiers refused to leave the site, according to the Herald.
Police said they were there merely to assist the council and would not comment to the Herald on whether there would be any arrests as part of the 'Occupy' break up.