Arrests in stupefying case
Three men have been arrested as part of a major investigation into allegations of drugging and sexual assault relating to a popular central Christchurch bar.
Police have been looking into about 20 complaints from women who allege their drinks were spiked at Mama Hooch on Colombo St in the city centre. Some of the women say they were sexually assaulted.
Detective Senior Sergeant Scott Anderson confirmed yesterday that three men, aged 33, 34 and 36, were arrested after several search warrants in the city.
The men appeared in the Christchurch District Court yesterday and were remanded on bail to appear again on December 13.
The 36-year-old is charged with supplying MDMA (ecstasy), stupefying and sexually violating a woman. The 34-year-old faces two charges of sexually violating the same woman, while the 33-year-old is charged with sexual violation, supplying ecstasy, stupefying, making an intimate visual recording, and possessing an objectionable publication.
Judge David Saunders granted name suppression for all three, but said it would have to be reviewed at their next appearance.
Anderson said the alleged offending related to a Christchurch inner-city bar and restaurant. The Press understands that bar is Mama Hooch.
Court documents show that the sex charges relate to one woman. The offending allegedly happened in April last year.
In August, the 33-year-old was charged with unlawful sexual connection, attempted unlawful sexual connection, two counts of stupefying, and supplying, administering or dealing in ecstasy.
He was arrested after two other women complained that they were sexually assaulted. The pair were at Mama Hooch before they were taken to another ‘‘inner-city location’’, police said.
Since then police, have fielded calls from other women who claim to have had similar experiences. The Press understands police are investigating about 20 complaints.
Last month Mama Hooch spokesman Danny Jaz said that if
he caught those responsible, he would ‘‘break their hands and hand them over to police’’.
Jaz, whose father Michael is the sole director and shareholder of Mama Hooch Ltd, said he suspected patrons were responsible for the alleged druggings.
‘‘There’s no way [any of the staff] would do that. I can’t stress enough how angry or upset I’d be [if it was one of them].’’
Anderson said he urged people to be careful when partying in the central city.
‘‘It’s crucial that when you are out socialising, you keep an eye on your drink and stay on guard for this type of criminal activity.
‘‘But it’s also really important to look after your mates – if anyone feels drowsy or suddenly ‘out of it’, take them to a safe place, and don’t leave them alone.’’
Police have recently visited bars in the city centre, including Mama Hooch, handing out pamphlets containing prevention advice. The pamphlet warns people to be wary of accepting drinks from strangers or people they did not know well, including bar staff, ‘‘even if they seem really genuine’’.
‘‘Keep an eye on your drink and your friends’ drinks at all times – when dancing, going to the toilet or talking to other people.
‘‘If your drink looks cloudy, or changes in colour/consistency, or doesn’t taste right, don’t drink it,’’ it says.
Any suspicious drinks should be kept for evidence, the pamphlet says.
‘‘If a friend is drunk, feeling sick, uncoordinated, confused or faint, stay with them. Don’t leave them alone.’’
Anyone with information can contact the Christchurch police station on 03 363 7400. Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.