Two men reportedly responsible for planning an anti-mask protest in Melbourne’s CBD on Sunday have been arrested by police.
Two search warrants were conducted in Mooroolbark and Chirnside Park on Thursday night during which cell phones and a device were confiscated.
A 41-year-old man has been charged with incitement and on Friday another 41-year-old is expected to be charged with the offences.
The first man has been bailed and is due to appear in January in Melbourne Magistrates Court.
A Facebook campaign has called on people to march in response to the six-week closure of the city and claimed to be part of a larger organised protest movement.
“Let’s blow this one up and fill up the streets to show these criminals we won’t give up our country and livelihoods without a fight,” the event description reads.
It had more than 100 confirmed attendees late Thursday evening and 400 expressions of interest.
If they turn up, Victoria Police will not hesitate to hand out on-the-spot fines of $1652, or arrest protesters.
“This is a completely blatant breach of the chief health officer’s directions and puts Victorian lives at risk,” police said.