A public brawl between up to a dozen teenaged boys led to a heavy police response in the centre of Manly this evening.
While witnesses have described seeing at least one large knife during the altercation, persistent rumours of a “mass stabbing in Manly” are incorrect and the public is not in any foreseeable danger. One male has sustained a facial injury, which is being assessed. At this stage no charges have been laid.
Police confirmed that they were alerted at about 5.30pm this evening, Sunday 21 January 2024 when “emergency services were called to a reserve on West Esplanade at Manly, following reports of a brawl.”
“Police have been told two groups of young males numbering about 10 were chasing after each other and assaulting each other.”
Police Officers from Northern Beaches Police Area Command have commenced an investigation, and their remains four male teenagers with police “assisting with inquiries.”
One male has been taken to Northern Beaches Hospital for assessment for a facial injury. Police did not confirm if the injury was from a knife.
As inquiries continue, if anyone witnessed the incident or has footage, they should contact Manly Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 (rather than social media.)
