Justin Bukulatjpi, a 20-year-old man charged with murder and unlawful serious harm during a brawl in Milingimbi in April, will remain in custody for at least another month. The Northern Territory Supreme Court adjourned his bail application again on Wednesday, August 5th, 2026, due to difficulties in securing a suitable bail location.
In May, the court granted Bukulatjpi bail to live with family on the Tiwi Islands, a decision opposed by Crown prosecutor Deborah Mandie, who cited a "very strong" case supported by over 10 minutes of mobile phone footage showing the accused wielding a knife before the victim fell.
Despite Justice Judith Kelly expressing a "high degree of confidence" that Bukulatjpi would comply with bail conditions, his release was blocked after traditional owners raised concerns to the NT police commissioner about potential unrest. Subsequently, community riots involving at least 100 residents erupted, and the Tiwi Islands' executive director of township leasing barred him from public spaces—actions Justice Kelly described as "unacceptable."
Further complicating matters, Mandie informed the court that the Warruwi police station was unmanned for up to five weeks at a time, making electronic monitoring unfeasible and maintaining that Bukulatjpi remains a flight risk.
Justice Kelly suggested that if a respected male or elder from the community were willing to vouch for Bukulatjpi, it might alleviate some concerns. Meanwhile, it was noted that Bukulatjpi is a person of limited means and limited English, and it was expressed that he is unlikely to flee the jurisdiction.
The court continues to seek a viable solution to the bail location issue while Bukulatjpi remains in custody.
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