HUNDREDS of youths have allegedly bashed and robbed tourists amid a series of wild brawls on Melbourne’s St Kilda’s foreshore this morning.

Police struggled to contain the situation as young people of African appearance fought each other and assaulted bystanders early Thursday morning.

Shocking video has emerged showing young men and woman kicking, punching and slapping each other as dozens of onlookers shout abuse.

media_camera Police are investigating after a wild brawl broke out St Kilda’s foreshore. Picture: Channel 7

Police were called to The Esplanade about 2.55am after 60 youths trashed a McDonald’s restaurant, throwing chairs and smashing a window.

It followed a series of assaults and robberies along the Esplanade earlier in the evening which police described as “unacceptable”.

Inspector Jason Kelly said police were investigating.

“Unfortunately last night we had a large number of youth attend, of African appearance, who have engaged in anti-social behaviour.

“They’ve committed crimes, they’ve been involved in a number of assaults on the foreshore of St Kilda.

“Their behaviour was just totally unacceptable and I’d call on them to come forward and hand themselves in before we track them down.”

Anyone with any information or footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at crimestoppersvic.com.au.

david.hurley@news.com.au

@davidhurleyHS

Originally published as Gang attacks at Melbourne beach