Police hunt for man involved in brawl at now-closed Kings Cross nightclub Maali

Police are on the hunt for a man allegedly involved in a brawl at an infamous Potts Point club that closed down amid allegations of violence and unpaid staff wages.

Police are on the hunt for a man who was involved in a bloody brawl at a Potts Point nightclub that has since shut down following allegations of violence and unpaid wages.

Investigators from Strike Force Chamaeleon have released photos of a man allegedly involved in the brawl that occurred on February 19 at Maali on Bayswater Road.

Up to 10 men were allegedly involved in the incident at a Maali, which left a 51-year-old male staff member with injuries after he tried to break up the crowd.

During the course of the investigation, two men, aged 30 and 37, have been arrested and charged with affray.

Police want to speak to this man in relation to a brawl at Maali nightclub. Picture: NSW Police

As investigations continue, detectives have released CCTV images of a man who may be able to assist with their inquiries. He is described as being of solid build, with dark hair and black facial hair.

The Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority forced Maali Nightclub to close for 58-hours the week following the brawl, due to concerns the venue presented “a significant threat to public health or safety.”

The short-term closure order was based on an application by Kings Cross Police Area Command in response to the “violent brawl” involving several patrons inside the venue in the early hours of February 19.

Maali after it closed down last month. Picture: Tim Hunter.

Maali failed to reopen following the closure, after then-owner Ussi Moniz Da Silva disappeared amid allegations of violence at Maali and claims of unpaid staff wages at the venue, and neighbouring hospitality hot spots Eros and Kings Cross Pavilion.

Employees began to notice cracks in Mr Moniz Da Silva’s management in January, after they allege payment runs were delayed.

Bar owner and restaurateur Ussi Da Silva Moniz Da Silva.

It’s believed Ussi Da Silva Moniz has left the country.

In text messages seen by The Saturday Telegraph, staff were constantly asking when they would be paid — and were told on several occasions that pay runs were delayed due to “downturns in trade”.

Staff who spoke to The Telegraph on the condition of anonymity claimed they had been put in uncomfortable situations at Mr Moniz Da Silva’s venues. One staffer claimed “questionable” figures had come to the venues on several occasions demanding to know where Mr Moniz Da Silva was, and expecting to eat and drink for free.

Mr Moniz Da Silva was active on social media until earlier this month, flaunting his lavish lifestyle and business success. However, all accounts have since been deleted and he has not been seen or heard from since by staff.