Extra cops sent to Meekatharra to deal with family feud, violence

Twenty extra police officers were sent to Meekatharra last weekend after a months-long feud between families erupted into an extended period of violence, leading to a liquor ban and palpable tension. At the time of writing, police had made 20 arrests on charges including assault of a public officer, disorderly behaviour in public and weapons-related offences Initial reports suggested the violence erupted after a funeral, but Mid West and Gascoyne Supt Roger Beer says the event was only responsible for bringing more people to the small Murchison town. “It’s part of a deeper issue in the town police are working to address,” he said. Meekatharra Aboriginal Reference Group member Darryl Curley said family groups, WA Police and the Department of Communities would meet on Wednesday to discuss the events and make a plan for the future. The local police and the Meekatharra Liquor Accord imposed a takeaway alcohol ban on Wednesday, but started allowing takeaway mid-strength beer on Thursday afternoon. Business owners and police are set to reassess the situation at midday today.