Police have arrested a 22-year-old male after a disturbance and firearms incident that occurred on Bickerton Island on Tuesday 19 May.

Alyangula Police attended Bickerton Island in relation to a domestic disturbance that occurred on Tuesday.

When members tried to intervene between the two parties, the 22-year-old produced a bow and arrow and fired towards police.

The weapon was removed from his possession by an on looker; however he then fled the scene.

At approximately 2:30 pm on Tuesday he was witnessed in the possession of a firearm whilst allegedly travelling to Groote Eylandt.

Members from the Dog Operations Unit and the Territory Response Section also attended to assist in locating the offender.

The officer in charge of the Alyangula Police Station travelled to Bickerton Island and met with community elders in order to negotiate the peaceful arrest of the offender.

At approximately 11:00 pm last night the alleged offender handed himself into police.

He was arrested and charged with several offences including:

Aggravated assault (x2)
Assault police (x2)
Armed with an offensive weapon (x3)
Breach DVO
Recklessly endangering - serious harm
Carry - expose firearm in public

He has been remanded in custody to appear in the Darwin Magistrate's Court tomorrow.


Media contact:
Amy Sloan
8922 3365