PAPAKURA.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 7, Issue 416, 8 October 1918, Page 2

PAPAKURA.

SOLDIERS RUN RIOT. WILD SCENEB. The regulations providing for the closing of the hotels in Auckland and within a 15-mile radius of the city yesterday on the occasion of landing of a draft of troops returning from the war were followed by several " thirsty " soldiers engaging motor cars for the purpose of visiting P apakura, which was outside the " dry" area. Soon after their arrival about 11 a.m. some noisy scenes occurred and as Constable Johnston (the police officer in charge of Papakura) was away engaged in the hunt at Alfriston for a man " wanted " on a charge of attempted murder there was no controlling authority present at first to restrain the ardour of the men in khaki, who numbered in all about 30. The party was also accompanied by some 20 members of the crew of the transport that had brought the returned men. The sailors, however, took no part in the disturbance but rather essayed to restrain the boisterous ones. It was evident that the soldiers were in such a state of health that a little drink quickly overcame them and the proprietors of the two hotels were powerless to effectually deal with them. Fortunately Sergt. Cowan, of Pukekohe, arrived on the scene from Alfriston about 3.30 pm. and despite the men's threats that they would wreck the houses if no more liquor was to be supplied to them he ordered the hotels to be closed. This was done and the men left the premises, angry scenes and fighting among themselves following in the street, Bergt. Cowan owing to being alone not being able to interfere. The Rev. W. C. Wood also attempted to influence the soldiers with good advice but his efforts were unsuccessful. About 4.45 p.m, however, the visitors started off on their return to Auckland and peace was once more restored.

It is anticipated that the incidents of yesterday at Papakura will influence the Defence authorities in future to extend the " dry " area on a similar occasion to a radius beyond the reach of trips by motor cars.

In accordance with the suggestion made by the Chairman (Mr E D. McLennan) at last Wednesday's meeting of the Town Board a public thanksgiving service in connection with the recent victories of lhe allie l arms has been arranged and is to be held in the Picture Hall to morrow (Wednesday) evening.