AUSTRALIA - Bikie arrest 'was publicity stunt'

OFF THE WIRE
SENIOR Comancheros member Michael Syfris fell victim to a "witch hunt" and was arrested in front of TV cameras to "make a show", a court has heard.
Syfris, 45, is one of three men charged over an alleged pub brawl at The Highway, Plympton, on Melbourne Cup Day.
He was arrested by two police detectives, two uniformed officers and eight STAR Group officers outside the Adelaide Magistrates Court yesterday.
Today Steven Georgiadis, for Syfris, asked his client be released on bail.
He claimed the way police had handled the arrest and investigation was unacceptable.
"I contacted a member of (SA Police's) Crime Gangs Task Force by fax and telephone before the arrest, saying my client was willing to answer any questions they might have," he said.
"The response I received was `I'll bear that in mind'.
"The very next thing, he was arrested at court, in a heavy-handed approach, by police who had tipped-off the television media to make this a show."
Mr Georgiadis said his client "vehemently refuted" suggestions he was involved in the alleged fight.
Senior Constable Matthew Bridgman, prosecuting, said Syfris may interfere with investigations or intimidate witnesses if released.
Deputy Chief Magistrate Dr Andrew Cannon said Syfris posed a risk of reoffending, and denied him bail.
He remanded Syfris in custody until next month.
http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/bikie-arrest-was-publicity-stunt/story-e6frea83-1226186020123