Violence fears after members of Vietnamese, African communities brawl in St Albans
Threats of interracial violence between Melbourne’s Vietnamese and African communities have been made after an attack outside a restaurant in the city’s west, with traders vowing to strike back,
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Vietnamese traders in St Albans are vowing to strike back against groups of African youths after two violent incidents before Christmas.
Threatening messages have been posted on social media by frustrated Vietnamese workers following two brawls in recent days.
“Soon there will be machetes and guns out. And they will wonder why there is blood,” a local said on Facebook.
Another said it was time to “set up the Asian patrol squad”.
“Guys, I usually don’t post much, but enough is enough,” a worker wrote on Facebook. “We gotta make a stand together as a whole and stick up to these situations.
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“Rally up and stand together to fight against these people who think they can walk all over us.”
Another called for action within the community.
“If you guys have pride in your community, let’s do it together,” a local business owner said.
The threats come as shocking footage was released on social media, showing gangs of African youths clashing with traders outside Song Huong restaurant about 4.30pm on Alfrieda St on Christmas Eve.
Wooden bats were used and chairs were thrown in the brawl that left a 46-year-old Delahey man in hospital with cuts to his face.
It is understood the dispute was over a cigarette.
Police have urged the Vietnamese community to remain calm while they investigate. Victoria Police superintendent Dave Jonestold 3AW police were aware of the “growing tension” between the Vietnamese and African communities in the area.
“We would say to those communities, it is the job of Victoria Police to prosecute these matters and not any other community group or any other individuals to take the law into their hands,” he said.
“We do not condone violence or any vigilante type behaviour.”
Supt Jones said police would carry out extra patrols in the area.
He warned police will use the “full force of the law” to prosecute anyone caught up in the brawls.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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