Gangs of youths clash twice

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32788, 13 December 1971, Page 1

Gangs of youths clash twice

Gangs of youths on motor-cycles, from rival factions; clashed twice in Christchurch at the week-end. Several of those involved were treated for minor injuries, six persons were arrested, and many offensive weapons were confiscated.

The trouble began soon > after 2.30 p.m. Saturday, ■ when fighting broke out in ■ the foreshore car park at New Brighton between members of two gangs. Ministry of Transport patrolmen notified the police that a brawl i appeared imminent when oc-

t casional blows were . exchanged initially. Later, an , all-in fight developed. Two policemen from the New Brighton station went to ' the scene, and arrested three persons for fighting and posi session of an offensive wea- , pon. As well, they took possession of 10 wooden battens and a knife.

There were about 150 persons in the car park, which was thronged with Saturday shoppers.

THOMSON PARK After the rival gangs dispersed on their motor-cycles, they regrouped at Thomson Park, at North New Brighton. Police reinforcements in six cars, together with police dogs and handlers, were sent out to the park, but because one of the ringleaders had already been arrested at the car pant, the prospective batfU “finW **

Two more persons were arrested at Thomson Park for

using offensive language. It was not known whether any persons suffered injury

during the fighting at New Brighton. Trouble flared again between rival factions of motorcyclists yesterday afternoon, a large number being involved in a minor battle in the grounds of St Andrew’s Pres-

byterian Church, at Hospital Comer. The police were called, but the fighters and supporters had dispersed on their machines by the time the police arrived, about 4.15 p.m. However, several went to the casualty department of the Christchurch Hospital for treatment a few minutes later.

POLICE KEEP WATCH Police kept a close watch on large groups of motorcyclists at various places about Christchurch during the afternoon at New Brighton.

near the totem pole in Harper Avenue, in Cranmer Square, and at the Sockburn swimming pool. One person was arrested for a driving offence during the afternoon, the police taking possession of his motor-cycle. About 6 p.m. one young man escorted by about 30 other) persons on motor-cycles, visited the Christchurch (

Hospital for treatment for an injury to the neck. This group later travelled west along Riccarton Road.