CONTENT WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander readers are warned this contains distressing content, and includes an image of a deceased Indigenous person, used with permission from her family.
Northern Territory Police have charged Jefferson Lewis with one count of murder following the death of five-year-old Kumanjayi Little Baby.
On Saturday, April 25, Kamanjayi Little Baby disappeared after she was put to bed at a house located in Old Timers Camp, which she and her mother were visiting.
Per 9News, reports have claimed that the Warlpiri girl was last spotted holding the hand of a man believed to be Lewis, whom police believe was leading her away from the camp.
After a five-day search, her body was found near the camp on Thursday.
Hours after the discovery, police arrested the 47-year-old man over the alleged murder of Kumanjayi Little Baby.
On Sunday morning, NT Police Commissioner Martin Dole announced that Lewis will be charged with one count of murder following the girl’s death.
“This remains a deeply distressing matter, and our thoughts are firmly with Kumanjayi’s family and loved ones,” Dole said, per 9News.
“This outcome follows an extensive and complex investigation by the Northern Territory police, and I just want to thank all of the members involved for their professionalism and dedication in reaching this outcome.”
According to ABC News, Lewis is also facing two other charges. However, it cannot be published due to legal reasons.
Community leaders call for calm
After news broke of Lewis’ arrest on Thursday night, a group of about 400 people gathered outside of Alice Springs Hospital, demanding traditional “payback” justice be carried out.
Kumanjayi’s kinship grandfather, Robin Granites, called for calm, stating, “It is time now for sorry business”.
“It is time now for sorry business, to show respect for our family and have space for grieving and remembering,” Granites said, per ABC News.
Alongside announcing Lewis’ charges, Commissioner Dole confirmed that five people had been arrested for the alleged riotous behaviour on Thursday.
Per NT Police, a service station and a supermarket “sustained significant damage” and “property loss estimated at a total of $105,000 stolen and $80,000 in damages”.
“Following a review into CCTV and media outlet footage, five people aged 18, 26, 34, 46 and 49 have all been arrested and remain in custody with charges expected to follow,” a statement read.
“Further offenders have been identified, and multiple arrests are expected to be made in the coming days.”
As for Lewis, he has remained in custody and is expected to front the Darwin Local Court on Tuesday.
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Image source: Supplied.
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