Protester arrested in Parliament grounds for second time

5:05 pm on 31 March 2022

A man who was arrested during the Parliament occupation last month was handcuffed there again this afternoon, as police call in more staff to deal with possible protest action.

Protester Brent Powers being arrested at Parliament this afternoon.

Photo: Supplied

A video on social media shows about half a dozen officers leading Brett Powers away from the grounds.

The police are jeered at by a small group of about 15 protesters who shouted "shame".

In the first week of February's occupation, Powers tried to breach the police line and enter Parliament but was arrested.

In a statement, police said they were aware of the possibility of planned protest activity across the Wellington area tomorrow.

Additional staff have been called in from outside of the Wellington Police District and plans are in place to respond if required.

"Police have a low tolerance of any activity that could lead to disruption of Parliament, critical roads or residents.

"While Police will respect the right to lawful protest, any behaviour deemed unlawful or that disrupts people from going about their lawful business will not be tolerated."

After the arrest, police said the protesters today left the area peacefully.

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