Forensic analysis of video and audio from an Opera House protest found ‘no evidence’ a grossly offensive antisemitic phrase was used, police say.
“As a result of independent forensic analysis of audio-video files of the demonstration provided to investigators, police have no evidence that this phrase was used,” NSW Police said in a statement.
“Police also obtained statements from several individuals who attended the protest indicating they heard the phrase, however these statements have not attributed the phrase to any specific individual.
“Detectives from Strike Force Mealing continue to investigate the incident and have urged anyone with information, who may not have yet spoken with police, to contact Crime Stoppers,” the statement said.
Three demonstrators were arrested after a pro-Palestine rally outside the Opera House on October 9.
NSW barrister and former police officer Mahmud Hawila, who has acted for a number of pro-Palestinian protest organisers, including Palestine Action Group Sydney, told the Herald in November that he welcomed the review.
“I had serious doubts after watching a video circulating in the media as well as having reviewed a lot of other footage and spoken to witnesses who were at the Opera House,” Hawila said.
Palestinian supporters gathered outside the Opera House on October 9 after it was lit up in Israeli colours following the Hamas attack.
Police send controversial Opera House protest video for independent review. The Opera House protest came just days after the October 7 attacks on Israel by Hamas militants, killing at least 1200 people.
courtesy Sydney herald
