World News | Protesters in Canberra Set Old Parliament House on Fire: Reports

Canberra [Australia], December 30 (ANI/Sputnik): Australian police are investigating the arson of the central entrance to the country's old parliament building in Canberra during protests against COVID-19 restrictions, media reported on Thursday.

This is the second arson within a week, which this time almost completely damaged the entrance, 9News reported. The protest was initially peaceful but later escalated, forcing the police to use pepper spray.

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"It then got a little bit out of hand and then when ACT [Australian Capital Territory] Police went to respond it was greatly exacerbated," Linda Champion, Commander from Australian Capital Territory Police said to the broadcaster.

The fire continued for 15 minutes with protesters outside yelling "let it burn." It caused significant damage to the front facade of the building seen in images posted to social media.

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Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said he was "disgusted and appalled" because the Australian symbol of democracy was set on fire. (ANI/Sputnik)

(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)