Gang tensions are a factor in the spate of violence plaguing Bermuda over the past two weeks, according to Superintendent Darrin Simons.

Mr Simons pointed to the “ebb and flow” of incidents leading to reprisals as he reflected on a Cup Match weekend in which 55 people were arrested.

He classified the fight at St George’s Cricket Club, which brought Cup Match to a temporary standstill on Friday, as the most significant event of the weekend.

The incident shortly after 6pm “definitely had some of the hallmarks” of gang involvement, Mr Simons told a press conference yesterday.

Asked what had led to the recent spate of violence in the community, he said: “There are incidents that occur, and there are reprisals that occur.

“And it’s not always clear which initial incident leads to a further reprisal. But that’s the kind of climate that we’re dealing with — with ongoing gang tension for which there is an ebb and flow.”

Four men appeared in court yesterday over the fight, but Mr Simons said the investigation was ongoing, and appealed to anyone who may have video evidence to contact police.

“There were hundreds of people who witnessed this incident — we really need to hear from you.”

Other arrests over the Cup Match holiday included warrants, minor drug possession and road traffic offences. A specific breakdown of the charges was not immediately provided.

Two suspects were arrested in connection with a chain-snatching on Friday in the West End. Both men denied charges in court yesterday.

A further two suspects were arrested in connection with the stabbing on Wednesday afternoon at Sports Locker in Hamilton. Both have been bailed.

That was the third stabbing within five days.

Mr Simons said that following the incident at the Wellington Oval on Friday, police stepped up their presence on both land and water. During Sunday’s Non-Mariners Race, marine police searched both persons and vessels for weapons.

“Thankfully there were no significant acts of antisocial behaviour or violence reported,” Mr Simons said.