Four arrested over violent brawl that put man in critical condition

A violent altercation involving approximately 30 individuals with weapons erupted in Nightcliff, Darwin, on Monday afternoon, leading to a lockdown of nearby businesses. The 30-year-old Wadeye man, who sustained skull fractures and severe injuries to his face and legs, is currently in critical condition. Four people have been apprehended by the Northern Territory Police, with ongoing efforts to locate additional suspects.

Reports suggest that many of those involved were from Wadeye, a remote community situated about 500 kilometers southwest of Darwin, where recent violence and unrest have been reported. The incident began when a busload of people arrived in Nightcliff, where they engaged in a large-scale fight, allegedly brandishing poles, rocks, and axes.

A 17-year-old girl from Wadeye has been charged with attempting to cause serious harm. Three men from the same area, aged 21, 29, and 43, have also been arrested and are currently in custody. A witness recounted feeling a deep sense of shock and unease while observing the confrontation from a nearby store, which was placed under lockdown by store staff.

Acting Superintendent Josh Cunningham stated that Wadeye has been experiencing heightened unrest, with a previous disturbance involving up to 100 people armed with compound bows, spears, and metal objects, resulting in serious injuries to a 22-year-old man. Police from the Territory Safety Division were deployed to the community to address the situation, seizing 107 liters of alcohol and half a kilogram of cannabis during a four-day operation aimed at curbing alcohol, drug, and weapons-related issues. Additional police forces remain in Wadeye to restore order and support the local officers.