Detectives from the Child Abuse Taskforce in Alice Springs are investigating a complaint of assault which allegedly occurred at a remote outstation in Central Australia.

Detective Acting Superintendent Travis Wurst said Police and staff from the Department of Children and Families (DCF) attended a remote outstation south of Alice Springs yesterday and removed six teenage boys and two adult males. The outstation is a treatment facility for volatile substance abusers.

“The group was brought into Alice Springs where the teenagers were placed into the care of the Department of Children and Families and the men were provided with emergency accommodation,” Det A/Supt Wurst said.

“We are investigating claims made by a 16-year-old boy who ran away from the facility at the weekend and came to police notice in Alice Springs.

“The boy has alleged maltreatment by staff at the outstation which has resulted in the commencement of a joint Police and DCF investigation.

“The boy claimed others at the facility had suffered similar treatment.

“Police and DCF staff continue to work together regarding the on-going care and welfare of the boys.

“The investigation remains in the very preliminary phase and no further information is available at this stage while the claims are under investigation,” Det A/Supt Wurst said.

Any person who has concerns or information including on-going concerns about suspected or actual child abuse must make a report to Police on 131 444 or to the Child Abuse/Child Protection Hotline on 1800 700 250.

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