ABC News
Fri, 3 Dec 1999 16:42 AEDT
LOCAL NEWS : Mt Isa

Qld police move to quell
violence in remote
community

Extra police are being flown to Mornington
Island in the Gulf of Carpentaria following an
outbreak of violence over the trading hours of
the local liquor canteen.

There have been reports from the island that up
to 200 people, some armed with traditional
weapons, were protesting against moves to
open the canteen.

They want it to remain closed as a mark of
respect, while efforts continue to find the bodies
of six people, lost in a plane crash in the region
last week.

Police media spokesman Brian Swift has
confirmed that offices of the Mornington Island
Council were damaged and staff were
threatened.

"I have been advised there was an incident this
morning where it's alleged that a number of
people broke into the council offices and
allegedly caused some damage to property and
the staff felt threatened," he said.

"Police are investigating the circumstances
surrounding that incident, taking witness
statements and charges will result from that
investigation.

"Extra police are being moved into Mornington
Island this afternon in case there is any further
disturbance but the issue of the canteen
opening is a matter for the local council and our
understanding is it will be closed at this stage
until at least Monday."

� 1999 Australian Broadcasting Corporation


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