Unrest in Central Australia prompts curfew requests

People in the remote community of Arlparra, in Central Australia, have experienced ongoing unrest since last week, leading to calls for a curfew and increased police presence.

Urapuntja Aboriginal Corporation halted non-essential services after approximately 50 people armed with traditional weapons fought in the streets. A staff member and her children sheltered in their car while shopping as violence erupted around them.

Jim Stacey, chief executive of Urapuntja Aboriginal Corporation, extended the closure of offices, centres, and art facilities, citing a duty of care to staff. He described witnessing escalating violence, including people being chased by cars and even struck by them, which he said was unusual for the normally peaceful community. Staff housing became a place where people sought refuge from the conflict, creating a difficult situation for employees.

Barkly Regional Council Mayor Sid Vashist wrote to Northern Territory Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro and Police Commissioner Martin Dole requesting a curfew and more police resources. Northern Territory Police responded by sending additional officers from Harts Range and Alice Springs and urged people to stop the violence. They also reported a 67-year-old man from Arlparra was assaulted before planned discussions between communities and was medically evacuated to a hospital.