NT ICAC to investigate Zachary Rolfe’s arrest over shooting death of Kumanjayi Walker

The Northern Territory’s anti-corruption commissioner has announced he will investigate the decision to charge Constable Zachary Rolfe with the shooting murder of Kumanjayi Walker.

The Northern Territory’s anti-corruption commissioner will investigate the decision to charge Constable Zachary Rolfe over the fatal shooting of Kumanjayi Walker.

Earlier this month, a jury found the 30-year-old not guilty of murder and other charges in the death of the 19-year-old in 2019.

Mr Walker was shot three times by Mr Rolfe during an attempted arrest in a remote community. He died at a local medical clinic roughly an hour later.

Constable Rolfe was charged within four days and went to trial earlier this year, before the jury declared him not guilty.

NT ICAC will investigate the decision to charge Police Constable Zachary Rolfe with murder. Picture: Amanda Parkinson

NT Independent Commissioner Against Corruption Michael Riches on Tuesday announced his investigation, which will focus on the four days between the shooting and the constable’s arrest.

It comes after multiple detectives on the case revealed they were concerned about the “abnormal haste” in which he was arrested.

Mr Riches said he is still considering whether to hold public hearings as part of the investigation, NT News reported.

Kumanjayi Walker was shot three times during his arrest.

“I will investigate allegations of improper conduct relating to the arrest and charge of Mr Zachary Rolfe,” he said.

“I will conduct the investigation as expeditiously as my resources will allow. Any action taken as a consequence of the investigation, including the making of reports or public statements, will be in accordance with the ICAC Act.

“I will not offer a running commentary on the investigation, and I have no further statement to make at this time.”

NT Police released a statement on Tuesday saying it was made aware of the investigation.

“NT Police will co-operate fully with the inquiry,” the statement said.

“As the matter is now before the ICAC, there will be no further comment.”