Child missing in remote Northern Territory, reportedly attacked by crocodile

From Steve Vivian, ABC

A crocodile swims in a lagoon at Crocodylus Park on the outskirts of the city of Darwin in the Northern Territory on August 30, 2023.
Photo: AFP / David Gray

Police are searching for a 12-year-old child who was reportedly attacked by a crocodile near the remote community of Palumpa in the Northern Territory, 360 kilometres southwest of Darwin.

“At around 5.30pm last night, police received reports of a missing 12-year-old child who was last seen swimming in Mango Creek,” NT Police said.

“Initial reports said the child had been attacked by a crocodile.

“Members of the community and the Peppimenarti police were at the scene and began searching for the child, who has not yet been found.”

Northern Territory Police Minister Brent Potter said it was a horrific situation for the community and the child’s family.

“It is a tragic event for any parent or family member to lose a young child, especially in circumstances such as that in which a crocodile took his life,” he said.

“I know that the search and rescue team are currently out there with members of Wadeye Police Station and that they will continue to do so to find the crocodile.

The red pin shows the location of Palumpa/Nganmarriyanga, a remote community in the Northern Territory.
Photo: Google Maps

“They have been given permission to remove the crocodile from the area and rescue the missing child.

“We live in a place where crocodiles are invading our waterways. This is a tragic event.”

“We will wait to see what further details we have once the search and rescue teams have completed their work.”

Northern Territory Police have launched a land and sea search that could expand to an air search later in the day, police said.

“Local officers are on scene and our thoughts are with the family and community,” said NT Police Sergeant Erica Gibson.

“Officers are currently searching a large section of the creek using boats and we thank the public for their continued support.”

According to police, officers from the nearby community of Wadeye are also assisting in the search operations.

– ABC