A man has been charged with murder and two counts of sexual assault after the death of a five-year-old girl in Australia, as police report arrests linked to unrest in Alice Springs.
Northern Territory Police said Jefferson Lewis, 47, was charged on Saturday and is due to appear in court in Darwin.
Police said the child, identified as Kumanjayi Little Baby, was found dead on Thursday after a search lasting several days.
“This remains a deeply distressing matter and our thoughts are firmly with Kumanjayi’s family, loved ones and the wider community that have been deeply impacted by these events,” Police Commissioner Martin Dole said.
The child’s family released a statement through her mother.
“It is going to be so hard to live the rest of our lives without you,” she said.
“We know you are in heaven with the rest of the family and Jesus. Me and your brother will meet you one day.”
Police said five people were arrested after unrest outside a hospital in Alice Springs where the suspect was receiving treatment.
Footage showed people gathering outside the hospital, with some throwing objects and damaging vehicles. Police used tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Dole said: “What you will see is criminal behaviour, plain and simple.”
He said damage and theft from a petrol station and supermarket are estimated at more than A$180,000.
Community leaders called for calm. Elder Robin Granites said: “This man has been caught, thanks to community action, and we must now let justice take its course.”
Police said the suspect was moved to Darwin for safety.
The child had been reported missing after being put to bed at a town camp near Alice Springs. Her family later assigned a pseudonym in line with cultural practice during mourning.
Erizia Rubyjeana
