A melee between police and bar patrons over the weekend at an old Salt Lake club, where the new "owners" were apparently open for business despite not having any permits, resulted in numerous arrests.

Salt Lake gang detectives received information the new owners of the Zanzibar Club, near 650 South and 200 West, were documented gang members, said police spokeswoman Lara Jones. Officers arrived at the club just before 1 a.m. Sunday and found numerous people inside consuming alcohol, including minors, she said.

When officers announced their presence, 30 to 40 people started running in all directions, Jones said. Some were arrested by waiting officers as they ran out the back door. At least two people fought with arresting officers and threatened them, Jones said. The two officers who were trying to make those arrests suffered minor injuries in the scuffles.

At least five adults were arrested for investigation of various charges including aggravated assault on a police officer, drug possession, serving alcohol to minors, fleeing and resisting arrest. Seven juveniles were issued citations for consuming alcohol, Jones said.

The club does not have alcohol or business permits, Jones said.

— Pat Reavy