The Northern Territory Police Force is investigating a serious assault upon multiple police officers early this morning while working to ensure the safety of the remote community of Milikapiti.
At approximately 6am, three officers attended a residence in the community to arrest a man in connection with alleged domestic violence offences.
During the arrest, the officers were attacked by multiple offenders. The violence included the use of improvised weapons, biting, and an attempt to remove an officer’s firearm from its holster.
As a result of this disgraceful behaviour, officers sustained injuries that required medical treatment. One officer was knocked unconscious.
Commissioner Michael Murphy APM condemned the assault, stating: "The behaviour we witnessed this morning was absolutely disgusting and disgraceful. Assaults on our officers, who are doing their job to keep the community safe, will not and cannot be tolerated.
"Every day, police put themselves at risk to serve and protect the communities they are part of. The least they should expect is to be treated with respect and to be safe whilst carrying out their duties.
"The officers were executing their duty to arrest an alleged domestic violence offender.
"Additional support is being deployed to the community, and those involved in this violent and unacceptable behaviour will be held accountable”.
"I have spoken to the officers involved. Their families are also quite concerned with the violent conduct directed at their loved ones.
"I will be flying to the location this morning with additional resources to visit and support our officers."
The Commissioner also highlighted the importance of local leadership in addressing these issues, adding: "I will be working with the Land Councils, to ensure strong local leadership is part of the solution and these acts of violence aren’t repeated.
"The members are currently safe and being treated for their injuries and I commend them for their measured and professional response to a hostile situation.
"I acknowledge all our officers who work incredibly hard across the Territory to reduce crime and keep Territorians safe, often in dangerous circumstances. No officer or citizen should be subjected to any type of violence and we will continue to do all we can to eliminate this."
