Allegedly organised fights at Adelaide beaches have drawn crowds of up to 150 young people, prompting South Australia Police to consider bringing forward its summer policing operation.
An incident at Henley Square on Tuesday evening was followed by separate reports of disturbances at Glenelg. Videos posted on social media appeared to show young people running across Seaview Road and into the square.
Police received reports of fighting at Henley Beach shortly before 6pm. Extra patrols were already operating along Adelaide’s metropolitan coastline amid warm weather and increased visitor numbers during the school holidays.
Officers responded quickly, but police said most of the crowd had dispersed before they arrived. No assaults or injuries linked to the incidents have been reported.
Acting Assistant Commissioner David O’Donovan said investigators were examining whether social media had helped bring people to the locations.
“Police investigations into yesterday’s reported incidents of fighting at Glenelg and Henley Beach are ongoing with Western District officers examining various social media platforms to identify the level of organisation behind the incidents and to identify and locate those responsible,” he said.
“Investigations indicate there are a small number of individuals involved in fighting activity, with the majority of the young people attending as spectators after being alerted to the activity on social media.”
Police said anti-social behaviour affecting community safety would not be tolerated and confirmed they were considering bringing forward Operation Jericho, the annual summer initiative focused on crime, public disorder and road safety along the metropolitan coastline.
Investigations are continuing. Anyone with information about those involved has been urged to contact police.
