CLEANED OUT.

Auckland Star, Volume LIV, Issue 270, 12 November 1923, Page 7

CLEANED OUT.

firm which was attacked and ransacked on Saturday night was engaged in painting a sign, "Business as Usual on Monday."

On .Sunday afternoon about 20 special constables in front of the Scots Church aroused the anger of a number of young fellows who had gathered in tho vicinity. Offensive names were called, and the crowd, emboldened by the unconcern of the "specials," pressed closer nnd became more menacing. At a sharp word of command the "specials" swung their batons and charged. The crowd stain- j peded, but some of those who had been more aggressive felt the weight of the baton on their bucks before they reached a place of safety. A fusillade of stones was thrown, ana one .of the "specials"—a mere lad —was struck on the small of the back with a stone about half a pound in weight, lie douc'oled in agony. A burst of laughter from the rioters proved too much for the "specials." At racing spend they charged, and one man, who 'had led the laughter when the youth was hit on the back, was soon mopping blood from his hair. A remarkable feature was the number of women and girls who took paTt in the j demonstration against the police. One jof these suiTered for her temerity. Standing among a group of men, she made an offensive remark to a party of specials who were parading the street. Two of the police caught her by the arms, and when her male comrades sought to rescue her they were put to flight by the batons of the specials. The woman was taken to the watchouse. Some of the batons issued were formidable weapons. A half pick handle was a popular truncheon. Court Scenes The police allowed only those who were on business to enter tbe City Court on Monday morning. A great crowd attempted to gain admittance to watch proceedings; but they were kept well in hand. Seventy-five cases of alleged looting and rioting were listed. Of these 37 were against young men, and all the defendants were sent to gaol for periods up to three months. Many women were also convicted. No trams or trains ran after 7 o'clock on Monday evening. A proclamation was issued stating that persons remaining in town unnecessarily, did so at their own risk. There were further demonstrations by mobs on Monday evening. A fire broke out in premises in Spencer Street. Special constables were hurried to the scene. They were attacked by a mob. A pitched battle ensued. Several constables were injured, one seriously. During a riot in North Melbourne a man was attacked by a large mob. His wife went to his assistance. She was also assailed, and both man and woman were badly injured. Tuesday, Cup day, saw the position well in hand, and probably the restoration of the city to peaceful conditions again. The special constabulary, in detachments of 50, patrolled the principal streets, and order was maintained except for one or two minor incidents. Cup night was one of the quietest on record. Practically all the functions, even private dances, were abandoned, and the people returned to their homes soon after the meeting. The danger of further serious riots is 6aid to have passed,