POLICE RAID.

Taranaki Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 144133, 1 July 1913, Page 3

POLICE RAID.

ON MELBOURNE CAFES. ALLEGATIONS OF BRIBERY, By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright. MELBOURNE, June 30. The police carried out early morning raids on three fashionable cafes, which wore crowded with smartly-dressed women and men, and arrested seven waiters who were charged with selling liquor without being licensed. The cafe raids resulted from letters received by the police at headquarters, supplemented by information obtained from special agents who participated in the cafe doings. They ascertained that large quantities of high-priced unlicensed liquors were consumed. Tho names of those present were secured by the police, and include a number of peoplo of both sexes. The Commissioner of Police states that an ugly feature of the business was the- introduction of American graft. A number of police on duty in the vicinity of the raided houses were watched, and were seen participating in tho foaeting, instead of, doing their duty. Men of that class would not suit him. There will probably be vacancies in the force in a few days. PROVISION FOR THE POLICE. (Received July 1, 10.40 a.m.) MELBOURNE, July 1. In' connection with the raids on the cafe it is stated that the police were standing outside listening to the music and; 'drinks and supper were standing on the counter for their delectation. A LETTER TO THE POLICE. (Received July 1, 10.50 a.m.) MELBOURNE, July 1. Amongst tho letters received by tho Police Commissioner prior to the raid, one expressed the hope that he had not been bribed. It declared that one cafe was a notorious den of immorality and drinking. It was frequented by masked dancers, women smokers and actresses, who tossed for sovereigns. Choice wines were supplied at 15s to 25s a bottle. The Commissioner hopes he will not be compelled to publish tho names of those present, as it would be unkind.