Arabic version: سكان دونالد يطلبون إجابات في اجتماع للشرطة بشأن ليلى جيفري

According to ABC News, more than 300 people attended an emotional public meeting at Donald Memorial Hall in western Victoria to discuss the alleged murder of 13-year-old Layla Jeffery. Residents submitted dozens of questions to police and council before Monday night’s meeting, seeking information about the investigation.

Remains believed to be Layla’s were found in bushland near the Richardson River, close to Donald Police Station, on July 9. Layla was last seen in Donald on July 4. A 16-year-old boy has since been charged with murder.

Victoria Police Senior Detective Inspector Dave Dunstan said police expected to remain in Donald for at least two more months while they followed leads, reviewed evidence and revisited key locations. He said authorities could not answer some questions because discussing evidence could jeopardise court proceedings and a coroner’s inquiry. The accused is a child in custody and is set to face the Children’s Court.

Detective Inspector Dunstan warned the community that proceedings could take years to finalise. “This will take time,” he said, adding that police did not want to give people false hope of a quick resolution.

Buloke Mayor Cr Graeme Milne urged residents to challenge rumours and speculation circulating through text messages, emails and social media. He said suspicion and innuendo without a basis did not help the inquiry or Layla’s family, friends, councillors and support agencies. Mental health services, including Lifeline, Headspace and Red Cross, attended the meeting and encouraged people to seek help early.