Nine arrested after CBD brawl

Police have arrested nine people following a street brawl in the CBD on Australia Day.

The incident occurred on Flinders St, near Batman Avenue bridge, at around 10.30pm on January 26.

Police allege two groups of 50 men, who had been supporting opposing teams at a soccer game, became involved in a physical altercation while making their way towards Flinders Street Station after the game.

“Five security marshals, who were escorting one group, attempted to break up the brawl which extended towards Russell St,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said.

Two men aged 38 and 39 were treated by paramedics at the scene after suffering facial injuries.

Following a public appeal in March, detectives from the North West Metro Regional Crime Squad executed a series of search warrants between March 25 and April 3.

Nine people were arrested including two men aged 24 and 23 who were charged with affray.

A 21-year-old man and two 27-year-old men were charged with affray and failing to comply with a direction to assist.

All five men were bailed to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on June 13 next year.

Another three men aged 20, 18, and 26 were released pending summons for affray offences.

A 17-year-old boy was issued with a caution.

Police are continuing to investigate the brawl. Following a public appeal, detectives released images of nine men they wanted to identify in relation to the incident.

While two have been identified, there are still seven men police are wanting to speak to.

This includes four men who police believe may be from NSW.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Caption: Images of men police believe may be able to assist their enquiries.