A cluster of ‘incidents’ on the streets of Kings Cross on Saturday night are further evidence the baneful lockout laws have done little to address actual problems.
Initial reports suggest a party tour bus arrived in the area, with occupants unable to enter venues either due to the 1:30 lockout laws or due to behaviour.
Subsequently two groups of males were involved in a fracas on the street around 2:30 am. Police arrived and the riled-up revellers turned their attention to them, with one participant apparently cautioned for bad behaviour and banned from the area.
Around half an hour later, police on patrol were approached by a group of men, which may have included members of the first incident, who became abusive and violent.
Several were hit with capsicum spray, and six arrested and charged with a range of offences. A 21 and a 19-year-old man were charged with assaulting police.
A third incident later took place on Bayswater Road, with police again assaulted.
Kings Cross Inspector Pat Gooley was reported as saying the end of study for a lot of students brought high numbers to the area.
“There were a lot of people out last night, with people ending university exams, older high school students finishing, and as we move into the festive season,” Inspector Gooley said.
But the question begs as to whether such discontent amongst the individuals involved would have occurred if they were not roaming the street unable to enter a licensed, controlled environment.
