National media release
AFP charge man with murder on Norfolk Island
Monday, 19 July 2004
A 25-year-old Norfolk Island man has been charged with murder following an incident at Kingston on Norfolk Island earlier today.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) launched an investigation this afternoon following the discovery of the body of a 60-year-old Norfolk Island man. Ivens Buffett, Norfolk Island's Minister for Land and Environment, was found dead in his office around midday.
It appears that Mr Buffett suffered a gun shot wound, however the cause of death is yet to be officially determined. Police will await the results of a post mortem which will be conducted later this week.
A man arrested by AFP officers on Norfolk Island this afternoon was charged tonight with murder under Section 19 of the Norfolk Island Crimes Act.
He will remain in custody to appear before the Norfolk Island Magistrate's Court tomorrow morning.
Police continue to conduct investigations in relation to the full circumstances surrounding Mr Buffett's death. A number of witnesses will be spoken to over the next few days.
AFP forensic experts and additional investigators will travel to Norfolk Island tomorrow to assist with the investigation.
Anyone with information in relation to Mr Buffett's death is urged to contact Norfolk Island Police on 0011 6 7232 2222.
Media enquiries:
AFP Media (Canberra): (02) 6275 7100