Three teenagers have been charged and South Australian police are hunting at least 30 more individuals over an alleged 'fight club' operating in Adelaide's north. The boys, aged 14 and 17, were charged on Tuesday with fighting in a public place, while a 13-year-old girl was hit with the same offence on Wednesday.
Police investigation launched after 7NEWS report
The charges come after police launched an investigation into the allegedly pre-planned fights following a 7NEWS report on the South Australian fight club social media page. The page has shared dozens of videos of fights at various locations across Adelaide, including public sports fields in broad daylight. In disturbing footage, a knife appears to be pulled during at least one of the fights.
Police close to locating more suspects
Police on Wednesday said they are close to locating more of those involved. “We have another four people who have been identified as a result of our investigation so far,” SA Police Commissioner Grant Stevens said. “We are actively pursuing those people and one of those people we believe is involved in the organisation of these activities.”
Fight club responds online
But the club has already hit back on social media, posting that police are “doing anything but catching real criminals” and the organiser has “no regrets”.
Community concerns
One of the locations — Ridley Reserve — is used by the Central Districts Softball Association in Adelaide’s north, with the club concerned the fight club may affect their family community. “This is the home of where we play and it’s not a safe activity for us to be around,” Kay Benger from the softball club told 7NEWS. “What’s stopping them from coming over here and starting a fight with us?”
Police believe at least 30 involved
Police say they believe at least 30 people are involved in the club but cannot confirm whether adults are assisting in organising the fights.
