Police put out call for weekend witnesses

Surry Hills Police have appealed for witnesses following a series of assaults near Oxford St on the Queen’s Birthday weekend.

Shortly after two men were arrested for a serious assault outside the Courthouse Hotel on Taylor Square early Friday morning, another incident at the hotel lead to a hammer bashing outside 187 Liverpool St around 7.30am.

Police said a man, described as a 45 to 55-year-old Caucasian with a shaved head, slim build, and wearing a green jacket, kicked in a glass panel at the Courthouse Hotel after being refused entry.

The man then left the location followed by a member of staff from the Courthouse and attended the IGA, where he purchased a hammer, a police spokesman said.

Followed by the staff member, the man then seriously assaulted another person on Liverpool St with the hammer.

Surry Hills Police are encouraging witnesses to contact the station on 9265 4144 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Meanwhile, sniffer dogs and extra licensing police were out in greater numbers on Oxford St over the long weekend, culminating in six people being charged with drug supply offences. In addition, nine licensing breaches were issued to local venues. A further 24 people were given move on orders.

The Surry Hills Alcohol, Regulatory and Compliance Squad will continue to have an increased presence in licensed premises and will take action against patrons who commit offences, a police spokesman said.

Surry Hills Police are targeting alcohol related crime and anti-social behaviour and want patrons to identify when they have had enough and go home, the spokesman said.