Brawling youths have again marred the Moomba Festival, with five people arrested overnight.

Police had to intervene in three brawls at Federation Square and Flinders Street Station between 10pm on Saturday night and 2am on Sunday.

Capsicum spray was used twice to break up the fights, which they believe were linked. Three people were arrested for assault and two people for drunken behaviour.

Moomba once was come together for Fun now Its Gang up & RUMBLE in the CBD and in the Suburbs there is a big percentage of FEMALES that are Ganging mainly overboys with many facing the Childrens Courts.

— Les Twentyman OAM (@lestwentyman20) March 9, 2019

A further two penalty notices were also issued, one for riotous behaviour and one for weapons offences.

While the incidents, along with a series of muggings on Friday night, marred the festivities, the violence was a pale shadow of 2016’s infamous scenes, which saw police battle an estimated 150 rioters linked to the Apex gang.

Police have stepped up their presence at Moomba festivities as violence becomes an unwanted part of the festival. Photo: ABC

During the riots, 150 youths stole phones, taunted police and terrorised the public.

More than 30 teens were arrested over those riots and police have had a strong presence at the festival since then.

-AAP