Students arrested in pro-Palestinian protest in Melbourne
Student demonstrators have been arrested after burning a stolen Australian flag during a protest over Israel's invasion of Gaza.
The protest by pro-Palestinian student support groups began as a low-key gathering, with only about 20 people taking part.
But the rally escalated when the group burned an Australian and Israeli flag in the foyer of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade building in Lonsdale Street.
Some were allegedly involved in scuffles with police as they fled down the street.
Officers quickly moved in and arrested about 10 of the students.
They are facing charges of criminal damage and theft of the Australian flag.
Earlier, the protesters chained themselves inside the Melbourne Passport Office and smeared red paint across the windows before taking their protest outside.
The group is planning another rally on Saturday.
