A 39-year-old male remains in Police custody following an incident that occurred in Yuendumu on Saturday 5 November.

It was reported to Police that a male pedestrian was struck by a vehicle while walking with several others at around 7:00 am on Saturday.

Superintendent Peter Gordon said it will be alleged that the 39-year-old male deliberately drove a Mitsubishi Challenger at the group of people.

“He subsequently struck a 38-year-old male with his vehicle,” said Superintendent Gordon.

“Police and local health clinic staff attended the scene. The man was evacuated to Alice Springs Hospital by the Royal Flying Doctor Service with suspected head and spinal injuries. He has since been released after suffering severe bruising.

As a result of this incident further disturbances occurred across the community throughout the day as people armed with an assortment of weapons damaged several homes and vehicles.

Police from the neighbouring communities of Nyirripi and Papunya travelled to Yuendumu to assist the local Police. Additional resources including Detectives, Crash Investigators and General Duties Police from Alice Springs arrived later in the day. 

Police are currently investigating a number of reports of criminal damage to homes and vehicles as well as several reported assaults and expect to make arrests over the coming days.

“It is relatively quiet in the community at the moment. Police will continue to monitor the situation with a view to placing additional resources in the community if required. It is hoped the senior community members will demonstrate restraint and leadership to discourage further aggression.”

Media Contact
Amy Sloan
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