Animal rights protesters a thorn in side of commuters

THREE teens are among 38 people arrested over an animal rights protest that blocked a major Melbourne intersection, causing chaos for commuters during the morning peak hour.

Three vans were used in the blockade as more than 100 activists chanted “what do we want? Animal liberation – now!” with some sitting on tram tracks near the intersection of Flinders and Swanston streets yesterday.

A number of people also chained themselves to the rented vehicles that were draped in black and emblazoned with the web address of a vegan documentary. The vans have since been towed away.

Two 17-year-olds, a 15-yearold and 35 adults were arrested and could face charges relating to obstructing a roadway, and resisting police. Protesters also gathered at abattoirs in Corio, Pakenham, Laverton North and Bacchus Marsh, as part of a national series of rallies.

Once the Melbourne intersection protest (pictured) was disbanded, some activists moved to block the entrance to the Melbourne Aquarium.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison earlier suggested that the protests occurring across the country were “un-Australian”.