Police and rioters clash outside Alice Springs Hospital
Updated
Updated · ABC News · Apr 30
Police and rioters clash outside Alice Springs Hospital
7 articles · Updated · ABC News · Apr 30
The unrest followed the arrest of 47-year-old Jefferson Lewis over the alleged murder of five-year-old Kumanjayi Little Baby, whose body was found south of Alice Springs on Thursday.
Dozens in the crowd demanded traditional "payback", throwing rocks, bottles and sticks, while police used pepper spray, tear gas and rubber bullets; several police vehicles were damaged and one was targeted for arson.
Lewis, reportedly beaten after being recognised near Charles Creek town camp, is in hospital with unknown injuries. Police said they would provide an update on Friday on his arrest and any arrests over the riot.
Is the Alice Springs riot about one crime or the total failure of justice for Indigenous Australians?
Can traditional Aboriginal 'payback' and Australian state law ever coexist?