By Carl Pfeiffer

Elcho Island’s only two grocery stores were closed for almost two days last week due to a relentless spate of break-ins and vandalism, the NT Independent can reveal.

Galiwinku’s top and bottom stores are run by the Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation (ALPA) and were forced to close their doors last Sunday after each experiencing at least one break-in per night for 14 consecutive days.

The decision meant many residents were denied access to the only grocery outlets on the island and were forced to source food instead from takeaway stores and service stations.  

An ALPA spokesperson said the decision was made in conjunction with NT Police and Galiwinku community leaders.

“In the last fortnight there has been one break-in per day and a decision was made by community leaders to close the stores,” the spokesperson said.

“Notices were put up on the store informing customers of this decision however we acknowledge the inconvenience this may have caused customers.”

The spokesperson said both stores reopened at midday on Monday and are now trading as usual.

“We will continue to work with NT Police and take direction from community leadership with the issue of criminal offences on community businesses and properties,” the spokesperson said.  

The two stores are “extremely busy” according to ALPA’s website, turning over a significant amount of products which arrive each week via barge to the island.

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