NT police rule out independent investigation into Alice Springs death in custody
NT police have rejected calls for an independent investigation into the death of an Aboriginal man in police custody after being restrained at an Alice Springs supermarket this week.
The 24-year-old from Yuendumu — who is yet to be named by family — died on Tuesday after he was restrained by NT police officers following an altercation with a supermarket security guard.
One eye witness told the ABC the restraint "looked pretty violent".
On Wednesday Assistant Commissioner Travis Wurst said he would lead the investigation and "provide oversight" along with NT Police's Professional Standards Command, separately to the coronial investigation.
There have been calls from advocates, including Amnesty International, for the investigation to be conducted independently from NT police to "ensure impartiality and to maintain public confidence in the process".
Indigenous Australians Minister Malarndirri McCarthy said on Thursday an independent investigation into the man's death could be the best path forward.
Senator McCarthy said the people of Yuendumu had already experienced "many traumas", and that wounds were reopened this week.
She said the best way to navigate the complex issues at play may be to take the investigation out of the Northern Territory police's hands.
Ms McCarthy did not suggest which agency should investigate instead, saying that decision would lie with NT Chief Minister and Police Minister Lia Finocchiaro.
"I am calling on her to recognise the tensions that do exist, that I've certainly heard from family members, but also are very aware of the difficulties for members of the police force as well," she said.
Amid a vigil in Alice Springs that saw hundreds of mourners gather to give speeches and grieve the young man's death, NT police released a statement on behalf of Acting Commissioner Martin Dole, who said he "respectfully" rejects calls for an independent investigation.
"The Northern Territory Police Force acknowledges the tragic death of a 24-year-old man in Alice Springs on Tuesday," the statement said.
"On behalf of NT police, I extend sincere condolences to his family, friends and community.
"I contacted both officers directly involved in the incident on Tuesday evening, and I understand the high level of public interest in this matter.
Some of the speakers at the vigil in Alice Springs on Friday had echoed calls for the independent investigation.
The acting commissioner said the incident would continue to be investigated by the major crime division.
He said the unit "operates under strict protocols and with full transparency".
"The investigation will also be independently reviewed by the NT Coroner, who has broad powers to examine all aspects of the incident and make findings without interference."
The acting commissioner said he had met with Senator McCarthy, conveying his "complete confidence in the systems of oversight".
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