An Australian man has been charged with murdering a young Aboriginal girl in a “deeply distressing” case that has sparked grief across the country, police said on Sunday.
Last week, detectives discovered the body of five-year-old Kumanjayi near the outback town of Alice Springs.
Soon after, they arrested 47-year-old Jefferson Lewis, who was knocked unconscious after surrendering to members of the Aboriginal community.
Northern Territory Police said Lewis has now been charged with murder and two counts of rape.
“This remains a deeply distressing matter,” Police Chief Martin Dole told reporters.
“Our thoughts are with Kumanjayi’s family, loved ones and the wider community who have been deeply affected by these events.”
Lewis was treated in hospital after his arrest as angry crowds clashed with police, demanding they hand over the alleged child killer so they could punish him themselves.
Images of the riot showed tear gas wafting in the air, a police car on fire and crowds shouting at armed police who kept people away.
Many people outside the hospital chanted that Lewis must face “retribution,” referring to traditional punishment in Aboriginal communities in central Australia, public broadcaster ABC reported.
The girl, known as “Kumanjayi Little Baby” at the request of her family, disappeared from an indigenous community camp, triggering a massive, days-long search that included walking, horseback riding and helicopters that covered much of the country.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said her death had left the nation heartbroken.
“This is the tragic outcome we all desperately want to see.
“There are no words to describe the immense grief her family has experienced.
“They are in the hearts of all Australians at this time of their terrible loss.”
The family’s spokesman, Robin Granites, an elder of the Valpyri Aboriginal group, called for calm in the community.
“Now is the time to apologize, show respect to our family, and allow space to grieve and remember,” he said in a statement.
“We need to be strong for each other and we must respect family and cultural practices.”
Short fiber/ABS
This article was generated from automated news agency feeds without modifications to the text.
