A man has been charged with the murder and sexual assault of Kumanjayi Little Baby, whose death triggered riots in Alice Springs and prompted calls for calm from Australian authorities.

Girl found dead after disappearing from town camp

Kumanjayi Little Baby, aged five, was found dead in the Outback after going missing from an Aboriginal town camp near Alice Springs, police said. Officers had earlier indicated they believed the child had been abducted from the area where she was last seen on a Saturday.

A man, who had recently been released from prison, was identified as a suspect during the search, police said. He was subsequently arrested and charged with murder and sexual assault.

Violence follows arrest

The girl's death triggered an outbreak of violence in Alice Springs. Unrest took place outside the hospital where the arrested man was being treated, and Australian authorities appealed for calm as the disorder continued.

Vigils to be held nationwide

Communities across Australia are preparing to hold vigils in memory of Kumanjayi Little Baby. The case has drawn widespread grief, with mourners expressing devastation over the child's death.