A Victorian man has been arrested over the alleged murder of Yiel Deng Gatluak near Alice Springs on New Year’s Day.
The 19-year-old’s body was discovered by a driver shortly after midday on January 1 lying on an unsealed road east of the town.
On Saturday, Northern Territory police announced an arrest warrant had been issued for a 22-year-old Victorian resident, who was arrested by Victoria Police this morning.
The man is scheduled to face court on Sunday where police will apply to extradite him from the state.
It’s understood he will be charged with murder once returned to the Northern Territory.
The move comes after three males, two adults aged 20 and 21 and a youth, were arrested this week in connection with the Mr Gatluak’s death. No charges have been laid against the trio.
On Tuesday, NT Police said the three males were “assisting police with their inquiries”.
Mr Gatluak was raised in Melbourne before moving to Alice Springs two years ago after finding work as a mechanic.
A GoFundMe page set up to support his family with the cost of returning his body to Melbourne and funeral, remembers Mr Gatluak as a “wonderful and loving son”.
“His heart was pure and he was always happy and kind to everyone. He treated everyone with so much kindness,” the fundraiser reads.
“We’re asking you to stretch your hands and join us give Yiel a burial he deserves and safe his family the stress of finances and give his family time to mourn him properly.”
In a statement, NT Police said investigations into the death are ongoing and urged anyone with any information to contact them immediately on 131 444 and quote job NTP2400000232.