The clown epidemic is coming to the South West with the people behind the Facebook page Bunbury Clown Sightings speaking to the Mail about their intentions.
The chief Bunbury clown, who asked to remain anonymous, said there are currently three clowns on the move in Bunbury with eight more set to join once their costumes are ready.
The three range in age between 22 and 29 years old and have already paid a visit to the Lookout Tower in Bunbury.
The group is a mix of men and women because “clowns are sexist”.
The clown’s spokesperson told the Mail, they are getting dressed up for the thrill of the scare and the adrenaline it brings.
But they were also quick to promise they have no criminal intentions.
“There are three things we won’t do – chase people, hurt people or kidnap people,” the chief Bunbury clown said.
“Everyone thinks we will but that is far from our minds.”
The local group have also confirmed they are unarmed, after reports of clowns in Perth being photographed with weapons.
“The Perth clowns are not doing it right – we will never be armed,” the chief Bunbury clown said.
“While we can’t control everyone, our group never will be [armed].”
The group confirmed to the Mail they also have plans to make appearances in Collie, Busselton and Margaret River in coming days.
“Bunbury and the South West… we are coming for you.”
WA Police arrested a 19-year-old clown in Northam on Saturday night after he chased a group of girls.
In what proved to be a short-sighted move, it was reported the clown chased the girls to 700 metres towards the local police station - where he was spotted by officers.
The man allegedly fled the scene, but was apprehended and arrested only a short distance away.
He will now appear in court to face charges of disorderly behaviour and possession of a disguise.
Possession of a disguise is not unlawful unless it is used to conceal identity while committing an offence.
WA Police said they had received a number of clown reports throughout the evening, but those involved were quick to make their getaway when officers arrived at the scene.
"It is important to remember that dressing as a clown isn't against the law, however should a person engage in activity that is criminal, anti-social or threatening towards other people police will investigate," a police spokesperson said.
The now global spate of clown sightings started in South Carolina in August and started to emerge in WA last week, with the spotting of a sinister-looking clown at a Mandurah shopping centre.
Andrew Elstermann
Email: andrew.elstermann@fairfaxmedia.com.au
Email: andrew.elstermann@fairfaxmedia.com.au
