CONSTABLE MOBBED.

Grey River Argus, 26 April 1929, Page 2

CONSTABLE MOBBED.

Trouble With Maoris. STRUGGLE OUTSIDE THEATRE. GISBORNE, April 24. At Teararoa on Saturday night a serious fracas occurred, when a mob of excited Maoris, with one or two Europeans, attacked and assaulted Constable Thorn. Cries of “Kill him! Kill him!” were heard by white residents, a number of whom went to the constable’s assistance, and in a few moments a strenuous struggle ensued, the constable’s helpers find it necessary to arm themselves with pick handles before the unruly mob could be quelled. Two of the constable’s assailants were knocked out in the affray and placed under arrest. Eight others were caught on Monday, and one yesterday. The trouble arose when Constable Thorn had occasion to eject from a picture theatre a Maori who was causing a disturbance. A little later, he was called out of the theatre and found two natives fighting, one of whom took to his heels. The constable gave chase, hut was met by two Pakehas nnd several Maoris, who adopted a hostile attitude. One Pakeha threw a stone, which struck tho officer on the back of the neck and knocked him to the ground. The mob fell on the constable, some caught him by the throat, others punching and kicking him. His shouts attracted the attention of a number of Europeans who hastened to the rescue. The constable by this time was in a so r ry plight. Securing pick handles from a neighbouring store, his' rescuers soon quelled the disturbance, Several of the mob had their heads cut open and other injuries inflicted. Fortunately, none of the defenders was knocked out, although several received painful blows.