Man, 21, clings to life after violence

A 21-YEAR-OLD man is in a crucial condition in Gold Coast University Hospital after he was allegedly punched, fell and struck his head during a fight at Broadbeach.

Two visitors from Sydney – Palemi Ahloo, 19, of Carramar, and Sefulutolu Tago, 19, of St Johns Park – faced the Southport Magistrates Court yesterday charged with affray

Mr Ahloo faces an additional charge of grievous bodily harm, court documents show. Police will allege the 21year-old man from NSW was walking along Surf Parade about 2.40am on Saturday when he became involved in a verbal argument with a group of men and women.

The group allegedly followed the 21-year-old before a fight broke out and the man was punched, causing him to fall and hit his head.

He was taken to Gold Coast University Hospital with significant injuries.

Gold Coast police established a crime scene at the corner of Margaret Ave and Surf Parade and said a number of people were assisting with inquiries.

Mr Tago’s legal aid lawyer Ethel Ndombi told the court there was an “issue with contested facts” and the labourer had a different version of events to police. Magistrate Ron Kilner also granted Mr Tago conditional bail.

Mr Ahloo, represented by legal aid lawyer Bill Siganto, was granted conditional bail by Magistrate Michelle Dooley.

Both men must live at specified Sydney addresses, cannot contact named crown witnesses and have been barred from international travel.

Ms Ndombi said it was “not alleged Tago was involved in the more serious incident, serious assault”.

Mr Ahloo’s case was adjourned until January 7, while Mr Tago’s case will return to court two days later.

Gold Coast Health confirmed yesterday the 21-yearold was still critical.