NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has blasted people who attended an illegal protest in Sydney's CBD yesterday, saying she is "utterly disgusted" by the chaos that unfolded.
Ms Berejiklian said that the "selfish" protesters' actions have "compromised the safety" of all NSW residents, and warned that those caught by police will feel the full weight of the law.
"I am utterly disgusted by the illegal protests in the city today whose selfish actions have compromised the safety of us all," she said.
READ MORE: Chaos as thousands gather for anti-lockdown protests
"The protesters have shown utter contempt for their fellow citizens who are currently doing it tough.
"This type of activity during lockdown will not be tolerated and the full force of the law will be brought against anyone who engages in this type of illegal activity."
Yesterday, thousands of people descended on Sydney's CBD to protest against COVID-19 vaccinations and the state's lockdown laws.
Marchers started at Victoria Park, Camperdown, where police tried to contain the crowds, but were soon outnumbered.
The group soon left the park and made their way up George St, where the situation quickly unravelled and turned violent.
Dozens of people were witnessed assaulting officers, destroying public property, chanting anti-government sentiment and climbing onto shop awnings.
One man was captured on camera punching a police horse.
Others were seen burning the Australian flag.
IN PICTURES: Anti-lockdown protests take place across Australia
Police have since confirmed that almost 60 people have been arrested and charged in relation to the event, which was in direct breach of public health orders.
This morning, two more men were charged with animal cruelty after allegedly striking police horses.
More than 90 infringements have been issued.
An exasperated Police Minister David Elliott said police had already established a 22 detective strong task force to track down the 3500 "very selfish boofheads".
He also urged anyone who attended the protest to get tested for COVID-19.
Experts have warned there is a high possibility a number of attendees were positive with COVID-19, therefore potentially creating a super-spreading event.
NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Gary Worboys had earlier flagged the event as "disastrous."
Few face masks were seen throughout the day and limited social distancing was practiced.
Police will continue to use social media among other means to determine who was involved in the violence at the rally.
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