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Kickboxer, father, and girlfriend fined over court brawl in Melbourne

FIRST ON 7: A kickboxer, his girlfriend and his father have been fined over a frightening brawl, which erupted inside the Melbourne Magistrates Court in front of terrified bystanders.

Police prosecutors and Protective Services Officers were forced to dive in and break up a violent brawl, which erupted on the third floor of the court back in February.

The fight took place outside a third floor courtroom. Source: Kate Jones/ 7 News.
The fight took place outside a third floor courtroom. Source: Kate Jones/ 7 News.

The fight began when Omar Bchinnati mouthed off at kickboxer Suleiman 'Sam' Abdulrahim outside a courtroom and, in the words of the police prosecutor, 'they punched on.'

Sam's father, Farouk Abdulrahim, joined in but physical exhaustion took its toll and he needed medical treatment.

Farouk Abdulrahim rests on the floor after the fight. Source: Kate Jones/ 7 News.
Farouk Abdulrahim rests on the floor after the fight. Source: Kate Jones/ 7 News.

As magistrate John Doherty watched video of the incident, he expressed dismay that people were brawling in the court foyer in front of frightened bystanders.

He said a courthouse was supposed to be a sanctuary.

Despite another magistrate threatening to jail Sam Abdulrahim, Mr Doherty convicted and fined him $2,000.

His dad was fined $750 and placed on a good behaviour bond.

Suleiman Abdulrahim being led out of court after the brawl in February. Source: 7 News.
Suleiman Abdulrahim being led out of court after the brawl in February. Source: 7 News.

Sam’s girlfriend, Nivin Yousif was fined $100 for discharging a water bottle.

Police and witnesses also paid a price on the day, suffering from the painful effects of capsicum spray, which was deployed during the melee.

Morning news break - December 15

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