Three men appeared in court today over three serious assaults in Christchurch, one which saw a young dad left with a serious brain injury.
In a statement, police said they raided addresses associated to the King Cobras gang, including a gang "pad" known as the Snake Pit Boxing Gym, in Middleton. The location is advertised as a boxing/mixed martial arts gym open to the public.
Miguel Moagutuuli, Marcus Moagutuuli, both 28-years-old, and a 22-year-old male that has been granted interim name suppression, are jointly accused, along with other co-offenders, of punching and kicking a number of victims until they were unconscious, and continuing to stomp kick and punch the victims until members of the public intervened, outside Cruz Bar on Victoria Street on March 21.
“The victims of these assaults outside a Victoria Street bar [on March 21], were innocent members of the public simply having a good night in town with friends,” Detective Senior Sergeant Colin Baillie said.
“One of the victims, a young father, suffered a serious brain injury and will likely have lifelong injuries due to the assault.”
Police said the investigation is ongoing, with more arrests likely.
“The central city streets are for all members of the public to use and police will thoroughly investigate any criminal wrong-doing including organised crime,” Baillie said.
The men face multiple charges including assault, intent to injure, and causing grievous bodily harm.
Brothers Miguel and Marcus Moagutuuli are also charged with participating in an organised criminal group.
Both have been granted bail to the same address, with a number of conditions, including a curfew from 7pm to 7am, and not to go within 100m of Cruz Bar on Victoria street.
Marcus Moagutuuli entered no plea, while Miguel Moagutuuli’s lawyer entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf.
Miguel Moagutuuli is expected to reappear in court in July, while his brother Marcus is due to reappear later this month.
The 22-year-old who cannot be named, faces further charges of possession of a number of firearms including a rifle, shotgun and AR15.
He has been granted bail without plea, with the same conditions as his co-offenders.
He is expected to reappear in court on May 28.
Anyone who witnessed the assaults or has information in relation to the assaults is encouraged to call police on 105 and quote file number 210321/2258, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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