"Police had anticipated a dozen people. Instead, more than 200 showed up—and two teenagers climbed onto an unlocked police car."
A Weekend Gathering in Brisbane
On Saturday, a group of more than 200 people, including many teenagers, gathered outside the Church of Scientology headquarters in Brisbane, Queensland. Police had anticipated a gathering of approximately a dozen individuals based on social media activity but were confronted by a significantly larger crowd, which overwhelmed three officers stationed at the location.
Incident Details
During the gathering, individuals climbed onto police vehicles. Two teenagers entered an unlocked police car and filmed themselves. One person rode a BMX bicycle over a police vehicle, and two others walked across a police car roof. Backup police officers were called to the scene and dispersed the crowd.
The gathering was part of a viral "Scientology speed run" trend. The trend originated in March when a TikTok user posted a video of himself running inside the Church of Scientology Information Centre in Hollywood, Los Angeles. Similar attempts have since occurred in Canada, France, Germany, the UK, and Sydney, Australia. On the same day, a group of about 100 people gathered outside a Church of Scientology in Sydney, leading to the arrest of two teenage girls.
Charges Filed
A 15-year-old boy from Varsity Lakes was charged with unlawful entry of a vehicle. An 18-year-old man from Deception Bay was charged with public nuisance and failing to wear a helmet. Both individuals are scheduled to appear in court on May 29.
Police Response
Acting Superintendent Simon Tayler stated that police have identified numerous teenagers involved in the incident, many of whom posted images on social media. He said police are conducting an extensive investigation to identify the main participants. Tayler characterized the behavior as intimidation and urged parents to monitor their children's activities.
Expert Analysis
Dr. James Birt, associate professor of creative media at Bond University, explained that "speed running" originates from video games and has been adapted as a real-world social media challenge. He noted that the Church of Scientology has become a subject of cultural memes.
Church of Scientology Statement
The Church of Scientology has not responded to requests for comment on the Brisbane incident. In previous statements regarding similar events, the church has said that turning its centers into targets for viral stunts constitutes trespass, harassment, and disruption of religious facilities.