OFF THE WIRE
Police arrest Michael Syfris outside Adelaide Magistrates court.
PATRONS at the Highway Inn hotel have played down a Melbourne Cup day brawl which led to two members of the Comanchero bikie gang being arrested.
Senior Comanchero member Michael Syfris, 45, a second gang member, 31, and three other members are alleged to have assaulted a man, who was punched in the head before bottles and glasses were thrown inside the bar on Tuesday night.
The man was taken to the Royal Adelaide Hospital with head injuries but has been released. Other patrons received minor cuts and bruises. Police said the man fell to the ground after being hit.
"Other persons sustained minor lacerations as a result of bottles or glasses being thrown, allegedly by the suspects," police said. They are continuing inquiries to locate three male suspects, all of whom allegedly are members of the Comanchero (gang).
The Anzac Highway hotel's manager told The Advertiser last night the brawl lasted only a short time and did not seem to be premeditated.
One witness said two separate brawls, involving up to six people, about 6.15pm were "pretty full-on" but the bar's manager said the incidents, while unfortunate, did not warrant commenting on as they were minor. STAR Group police arrested Mr Syfris yesterday outside the Magistrates Court about 3.30pm. He had pleaded guilty to separate offences for carrying an offensive weapon and disorderly behaviour. Both offences took place yesterday.
Syfris was not handcuffed until he was placed in the back of a police vehicle to be taken to the city watch house for questioning.
Crime Gangs Task Force members also arrested the other Comanchero member at his house at Klemzig after a series of raids across Adelaide. Among the properties raided was the Ink Central tattoo parlour on Hindley St, owned by alleged New Boys leader Vince Focarelli.
In court, Syfris pleaded guilty before Magistrate Alfio Grasso and was convicted and discharged without penalty .
Outside court, about 10 STAR Group officers awaited his exit. Officers cornered and arrested him and marched him to an unmarked car. Syfris showed no signs of resistance. Police last night were continuing to search for the other Comanchero members allegedly involved in the brawl.
Syfris, of Adelaide, was refused bail and appears in Adelaide Magistrates Court today. The Klemzig man will appear before Adelaide Magistrates Court at a later date.