Shocking brawl involving dozens of kids in Sydney’s CBD

A shocking spate of violent teen bashings and assaults in Sydney’s CBD is being fuelled by the pursuit of social media fame, with kids filming and uploading videos of each other in brawls and random ­attacks. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE.

Authorities say social media is fuelling the crime spree.

A shocking escalation of violent teen bashings and assaults in Sydney’s CBD is being fuelled by the pursuit of social media fame, with kids filming and uploading videos of each other in brawls and random attacks across the city.

Police have now launched a ­crackdown, called Operation Next Gen, to combat the young thugs who are stealing motorbikes, bashing each other, and robbing people and businesses.

Since January, NSW Police have taken legal action – including laying charges and issuing cautions – over 40 assaults, six break-and-enters, 29 robberies and 12 stolen vehicle offences, all of which have been allegedly committed by teens in Sydney’s CBD.

Operation Next Gen is targeting youth crime hot spots like train stations, and high-traffic areas including Town Hall and George St.

Police believe at least some of the brawls have been prearranged online, and are concerned the teens are increasingly choosing the bustling city centre to “square off”.

Shocking footage shows a young woman being repeatedly kicked while she cowers on a train platform at Town Hall.

Sydney City Police Detective Chief Inspector David El Badawi said the recent spate of violence and thefts was being fuelled by social media.

“I have noticed an increased trend of juveniles recording their crimes to share on social media,” Chief Insp El Badawi said. “It appears the motivation is for ‘likes’ and notoriety.

“It is important that we deter juveniles from seeking validation through these harmful means.”

As part of Operation Next Gen, Sydney City Police have teamed up with the City of Sydney to keep a watchful eye on teen offenders from CCTV cameras covering the city.

“They (cameras) identify issues and relay the information to officers, which allows quick detection and prevention of offences,” Chief Insp El Badawi said.

In one shocking video posted to Instagram, two groups of teens are captured brawling in an alleyway off George St last Saturday night.

One teen is seen with blood on his shirt, while another is armed with a metal pole, swinging it repeatedly.

The confrontation becomes so violent, with boys throwing each other to the ground, that a police officer deploys a Taser at one of the youths.

Three teen boys were charged as a result, with investigations ongoing.

Footage from a brawl on George St last Saturday night.

Investigations into the brawl are ongoing.

One of the weapons seized from youth offenders by NSW Police. Picture: Supplied

The Daily Telegraph understands the McDonald’s fast-food restaurant on George St is a common meeting place for the youths, with a portable CCTV trailer now set up at the location to capture footage of any violence.

In another video obtained by The Telegraph, a woman is seen cowering on a platform at Town Hall train station as she is repeatedly kicked in the head by a group of young boys.

It’s understood several of the teens charged are repeat offenders, who have been released on bail after committing similar offences.

A police officers deploys a Taser to subdue one young brawler.

Officers say there is zero tolerance for the young thugs’ behaviour.

Adolescent psychologist Michael Carr-Gregg agreed social media played a “significant role” in youth offending.

“(It) amplifies, normalises, sanitises and glamorises, and sometimes provokes violent or criminal behaviour,” he said.

“It acts as a platform for sharing and glorifying criminal acts.”

Superintendent Martin Fileman, commander of the Sydney City Police Area Command, said youth crime was “not something we tolerate or excuse”.

“The reality is that criminal behaviour at any age has consequences,” he said. “The safety of our community is our priority.”

Do you have a story for The Daily Telegraph? Message 0481 056 618 or email [e-mail]