Twenty-four persons were injured and three arrested as the result of a wild scrimmage which broke out between members of the Hanoar Haaved (Labor Youth) and the Betharim (Revisionist Youth) here Friday night, shattering the gay Purim spirit which has reigned here for the past few days.
The affray occurred when an unidentified person in one of the two groups, which had been dancing and making merry in the street outside the Bethar clubhouse, started the exchange of the mutual recriminations in which both groups habitually indulge. The altercation led to blows and scuffles, melees developed, and stones and other missiles were thrown.
CROWD HAMPER POLICE
The Betharim, who were outnumbered, sought refuge and defended themselves in the yard of their clubhouse. The injured were taken to a hospital, where six remained until this morning and three until noon today. Joseph Stavsky, brother of Abraham Stavsky, who is held in connection with the murder of Dr. Chaim Arlosoroff, was among those hurt.
Police stated that several hundred persons of the 7,000 who had gathered to celebrate the conclusion of Purim must have taken part in the disturbance. The huge crowds of bystanders hampered effective police action.
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