NSW police watchdog begins rare public hearings into Herzog protest response
NSW police watchdog is holding rare public hearings into police conduct at a February 2026 protest that drew over 800 misconduct complaints.
NSW's police watchdog is holding rare public hearings into law enforcement actions during a February 2026 protest at Town Hall. About 6,000 people gathered despite a police ban.
Operation Makalu, as the investigation is named, was triggered by more than 800 public complaints about police conduct. This is the most in the LECC's history.
The commission has reviewed more than 450 items of evidence. It has also reviewed more than 1,000 hours of CCTV footage.
The LECC is examining alleged use of force by officers and their use of pepper spray. It is also examining police planning for the event.
The hearings began this week with private sessions. Senior commissioned officers will later give evidence in public.
Lower-ranking officers will be granted pseudonyms to protect their identities. The LECC will deliver a final report to parliament once the inquiry concludes.
- 6000 people
- Protest attendance
- 800 plus
- Misconduct complaints
- 1000 plus hours
- CCTV footage reviewed
- 267
- Complaints to police directly
Why it mattersThe hearings test whether NSW police overstepped during a lawful protest. The outcome may shape how law enforcement handles future demonstrations.
AustraliaNSW Police accountability is under public scrutiny for the first time at this scale. The findings could reshape police protest powers across Australia.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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