Wellington Police arrested five people this morning after Parliamentary Security asked anti GE protesters to dismantle and remove their tents from Parliament Grounds.
Inspector Marty Grenfell, Wellington Area Police Controller, says most of the 40 --50 protesters present complied with Parliamentary Security’s request, although not until police moved onto the forecourt area.
"There was some reluctance but most people were compliant," Mr Grenfell says.
Five people were arrested -- three men and two women -- and they face a variety of charges including breach of the peace, resisting arrest, wilful damage and assault on police. They will be bailed and will appear in the Wellington District Court on Friday.
"We were there to keep the peace and assist Parliamentary Security where required," Mr Grenfell says.
Parliamentary Security handed a number of tents to police as found property and these can be claimed by their owners.