Violent Arrow Killings of Cattle and Buffalo Spark Investigation in Northern Territory

Investigations by the Northern Territory Police are underway following distressing reports of cattle and buffalo killings along the Arnhem Highway, southeast of Darwin. The NT Cattlemen’s Association (NTCA) revealed that three Brahman cattle and two buffalo were recently targeted with arrows, sparking renewed calls for a dedicated stock squad within the NT Police. Two cattle, including a valued bull named ‘Dopey’ worth $6,000, were shot on separate occasions at Annaburroo Station, with one heifer also falling victim to this malicious act, leaving the station manager deeply troubled.

Station manager Adrian Phillips expressed profound concern, noting the bull’s friendly demeanor and the agonizing death it likely suffered due to being shot in the lung. At Beatrice Hill Research Station, two riverine buffalo, integral to a vital breeding program and valued at $3,500 each, fell victim to similar attacks between Christmas and the end of last year, according to the NT Buffalo Industry Council. These incidents, deemed both callous and cruel, deeply distress the NT cattle industry and emphasize the need for a dedicated stock squad to tackle such crimes effectively, stated NTCA acting chief executive Romy Carey. Reports of stock-related offenses remain frequent, with many cases going unsolved due to logistical challenges and the specialized skills needed for investigations, added Mrs. Carey.