Destruction at Baxter
Media Release - DPS 17/2003
Eight high-risk detainees at the Baxter Immigration Detention Facility this afternoon caused damage to one of the Centre's compounds the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs said today.
The Department has estimated damage to be tens of thousands of dollars.
The detainees, six of whom were recently bailed following court appearances after their escape from Woomera last month, smashed every glass window and door in the compound in which they were being held.
No ACM officers were hurt during the incident. However, one detainee inflicted cuts on himself during the disturbance that has required some stitches. The man was treated on site.
It is understood the men, who had recently had certain amenities restored - such as access to the gym and personal telephone use - were insisting on access to other compounds. No detainees have unrestricted access to other compounds but when this was explained they smashed the windows and doors.
The incident has been referred to the Australian Federal Police.
5 March 2003
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