New Zealand police have moved in to end an anti-vaccine mandate protest that has disrupted the country's capital for the past three weeks, towing away cars and dismantling tents set up outside parliament, Reuters reported.

Police said 60 people were arrested during the operation and they had “gained significant ground” in efforts to clear the protesters. At least three officers were injured, police said.

“Those protesters illegally occupying parliament grounds and surrounding streets have been given ample opportunity to leave. It is time for them to go,” Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said at a news conference after the police action.

Police deploy as demonstrators against Covid-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions gather outside of the New Zealand Parliament grounds in Wellington on Wednesday. — AFP
Police deploy as demonstrators against Covid-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions gather outside of the New Zealand Parliament grounds in Wellington on Wednesday. — AFP

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