GARROTTERS. IN SYDNEY

Hokitika Guardian, 8 July 1924, Page 3

GARROTTERS. IN SYDNEY

FIVE MEN ARRESTED. SYDNEY, June 28. Startling details of a city-wide patrol by assault and robbery men have coupe into -tlie posession of the police, as a result of a campaign they have been waging for two months. Twelve arrests have been -made in that time. Five men were arrested | after a struggle in Druitt street, and charged with assault with attempt to rob. Pairs of garrotters, of whom there is an organised gang in Sydney, have been working certain beats in the city, waylaying likely prospects followed from picture shows, boats, and lodging houses. Two would take the area, say, from the Jlaymarket to Liverpool street, and saunter to Hyde Park, where a meeting would take place with two others. In the park they have been seen comparing their various hauls, such as gold watches and chains, ticpins and other jewellery. CALLS FUR iIE lIP.

On one occasion, realising that their prospect would be a hard man Tin handle, two of the gang signalled for assistance, and two others canto to their aid. The object of their attention on that occasion was spoken to by one of the gang, while the others scattered and waited. The victim was hedged into an hotel, and followed to the lavatory, where three held him while the other committed tho robbery. Last night two men approached an elderly stranger near Bebarfald’s store in George street. After a short conversation the trio walked round the Town Hall and down Druitt street. In the open street, at 6.30 p.m.. three others came on to the scene, and

tripped up the stranger. As lie fell, four of the alleged thieves took hold of his legs and arms, and spreadeagled him. The fifth went through his pockets. This was the scene when Detectives Garlick. Parrott', and Baker came into the picture. They ran to the old mail’s assistance and grappled with three of his assailants. SCREAM TNG FOR HELP. All the time the victim was screaming for help. The detectives had no easy struggle. Garlick throw his man j and turned to grapple with another, who was putting up stern resistance to Detective liarratt. Eventually the • three were handcuffed and taken to the Central Police Station. The other two made off down Pruitt street, pursued by civilians. They were arrested in a blind lane, and soon joined the others at the police station. The victim of the assault had L’TI in his possession, though how this fact was known to his assailants is a mvs lory, lie was not seriously injured.