Police make arrests – Community unrest at Wadeye

Northern Territory Police in Wadeye are moving into a ‘rehabilitation phase’ in the community following the arrest of numerous alleged participants in the recent community unrest.

A 32-year-old man was arrested today and is in custody pending being charged with:

  • 2 x Cause serious harm
  • Recklessly endangering life
  • 4 x Going armed in public
  • 3 x Taking part in a riot
  • Aggravated assault
  • Engaging in violent conduct.

Police will object to the granting of bail, and this will be determined by a Local Court Judge after charges are laid.

Five other people have been remanded in custody to appear in the Darwin Local Court.

A 31-year-old male has been charged with:

  • Take part in riot
  • Going armed in public
  • Violent act preventing Police at a riot
  • Causing damage to property
  • Endangering the occupants of vehicle.

A 45-year-old male has been charged with:

  • Recklessly endangering serious harm
  • Aggravated assault
  • Taking part in riot
  • Going armed in public.

A 28-year-old male has been charged with:

  • Taking part in riot
  • Going armed in public.

A 38-year-old male has been charged with:

  • Taking part in riot
  • Armed with an offensive weapon.

A 24-year-old male has been charged with:

  • Taking part in riot
  • Armed with offensive weapon.

Superintendent Tanya Woodcock said, “These arrests are the culmination of some great work by local police officers and interagency cooperation.

“The community has been under significant duress due to the actions of a relatively small group of residents. These people will now be held accountable, and through continued engagement with residents, we can look forward to restoring calm to the community.

“Now, we will begin what we call ‘rehabilitation’, where we’ll be working with the community members, particularly those in the areas affected by the recent events, to clear the roads and help residents clean their yards. This will go a long way toward repairing the amenity and safety of the community.”

PFES Media

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