Pub brouhaha ends in arrests as cops show brawlers who’s boss

BRAWLERS at a Townsville pub bit off more than they could chew when they turned their attention to two female police officers.

Police were called to the Kirwan Tavern about 12.10am on Sunday to reports of multiple fights breaking out at the premises.

Five crews responded to the disturbance with about 20 people involved in the brawl.

Kirwan Police Station officer- in- charge Senior Sergeant Jason Brosnan said police were attempting to break up fights when a group of men set upon two female officers.

“Officers were breaking up fights and arresting offenders and then were set upon by the crowd, resulting in Tasers being presented and OC ( pepper) spray being deployed to prevent officers from being assaulted,” Sen- Sgt Brosnan said.

“Tasers were presented but not used but the OC spray was used on a group of people.”

Sen- Sgt Brosnan said ugly incidents such as this would not be tolerated by police.

“Police are just there doing their job effecting arrests and the last thing we need to be dealing with is members of the crowd trying to take things into their own hands and interfering with the lawful arrest of offenders,” he said.

“We take a zero tolerance approach to assaults occurring in licenced premises and people found committing offences in licenced premises even outside the safe night precinct will face banning notices.”

Sen- Sgt Brosnan said several people fled the scene but officers managed to take five men into custody.

They were later released but were issued banning notices and will not be able to attend the premises for 10 days.

Sen- Sgt Brosnan said charges were expected to be laid on several people.

Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Police Link on 131 444.