NSW Police Launch Critical Incident Probe Into Arrest Injury Of Ex-Greens Candidate Hannah Thomas

Hannah Thomas, a former Greens candidate, sustained serious facial injuries, potentially causing permanent vision loss in her right eye, during her arrest at a pro-Palestinian protest in Sydney outside a firm linked to Israeli Defence Force fighter jet components. Initially, NSW Police did not declare the incident a critical one, but after reviewing Thomas' medical records, they officially classified it as a Level 2 critical incident, prompting an independent investigation overseen by the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission. Thomas and her legal team have criticized police actions as overly aggressive and linked to recent anti-protest laws that embolden crackdowns on peaceful protests. Despite police footage showing no misconduct, Thomas was charged with resisting arrest and hindering police, and is scheduled to appear in court. Greens MP Sue Higginson has called for a thorough investigation and reversal of anti-protest measures, highlighting concerns over police impunity. NSW Police also face scrutiny over potentially using new powers banning protests near places of worship, as the protest occurred near a mosque, raising broader questions about the enforcement of these laws.