Curfew Enforced and Extra Police Deployed as Emergency Measures in Alice Springs
Chief Minister Eva Lawler expressed her frustration with the high levels of crime and anti-social behavior, stating, “I’m fed up with this appalling level of crime and anti-social behaviour.”
Children in Alice Springs have been restricted from going outside their homes at night due to an emergency curfew mandated by the Northern Territory government to address escalating violence in the red center.
The chaos unfolded in Alice Springs on March 26, with a large group attacking the Todd Tavern, resulting in significant damage and tensions rising after a teenager’s death.
Chief Minister Eva Lawler condemned the attack as horrific and unacceptable, emphasizing that such incidents should not occur in the Northern Territory again.
Following the incident, a curfew from 6pm to 6am has been implemented for children and teenagers under 18 for a two-week period, and an additional 58 police officers will be deployed to the troubled town.
The group involved in the clash was from the Utopia region and had gathered in town to commemorate a family member’s death, leading to violent behavior on the streets.
A violent confrontation involving weapons, broken windows, and a car set on fire ensued, resulting in multiple arrests and the seizure of weapons.
Community leaders, including Mayor Matt Paterson and Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney, expressed their concerns and hopes for improved community safety and a better future for central Australia.
Senator Jacinta Price called for a more tangible response from federal parliament, emphasizing the need to address the issues affecting the community effectively.
Central Land Council chair Matthew Palmer emphasized the importance of following cultural leadership and authority rather than resorting to violent actions.
