Murder accused to remain in custody as lawyers struggle to find suitable bail location

Justin Bukulatjpi, 20, remains in custody after being charged with murder and causing serious harm during a brawl in Milingimbi earlier this year. Initially granted bail in May, he has since been held in custody as his legal team attempts to find a suitable location for his release. His defence lawyer, Louise Dart, is exploring the possibility of Mr Bukulatjpi living with family on Warruwi, a remote Indigenous community on South Goulburn Island, 290 kilometres north-east of Darwin.

However, this proposal faces challenges due to the unmanned status of the Warruwi police station for five-week periods, which would preclude electronic monitoring and raise concerns about Mr Bukulatjpi potentially fleeing. The case has faced opposition from prosecutors, community unrest, and an unmanned police station, leading to delays in finding a suitable bail location.

Justice Kelly has requested that Mr Dart seek an undertaking from a male authority figure in the community to ensure Mr Bukulatjpi's compliance with bail conditions, as a breach could result in a contempt of court charge. The case has been adjourned until September, with Mr Bukulatjpi remaining in custody.