Adelaide’s CBD has been the scene of two separate incidents that have raised concerns about safety for city workers, shoppers and bystanders. Police are investigating an alleged assault and theft at a fast-food restaurant, along with a separate arrest involving a wanted man who was chased through the city streets.
In the first incident, police were called to a Hungry Jack’s restaurant on Pulteney Street in the early hours of Wednesday morning after reports that a man had allegedly jumped the counter, assaulted an 18-year-old worker, and taken food items before leaving with a woman.
Police later located and arrested a 30-year-old man and a 34-year-old woman walking through Rundle Mall. The man was charged with assault and theft and was refused police bail, while the woman was charged with disorderly behaviour. The injured worker suffered minor injuries and was left shaken by the incident.
In a separate incident later the same day, police chased a 23-year-old Rosewater man through Adelaide CBD after he allegedly provided false details and ran from officers. The pursuit continued through Rundle Mall before the man was restrained on nearby Pulteney Street.
During the arrest, a female bystander was accidentally caught up in the struggle and fell, hitting her head on the pavement. Two police officers and the woman were treated by paramedics and taken to hospital for injuries.
Police allege the arrested man was wanted over an outstanding warrant and a previous robbery investigation. Officers also allegedly located a flick knife, a balaclava and multiple driver licences belonging to other people. He faces several charges, including resisting police, assaulting an emergency service worker, weapons offences and other traffic-related offences.
The incidents have renewed calls from worker representatives for stronger safety measures in late-night CBD businesses, including improved security barriers and protections for hospitality and fast-food employees.
