The family of a 51-year-old Aboriginal man who died in police custody in a Cape York community this week say they are still waiting for answers from police about what happened.
About 100 members of the community on western Cape York gathered for a peaceful protest outside the town's police station on Friday.
Gwyneth George said she just wanted answers for her brother, whom the family asked not be named.
Several family members told the ABC they were shocked and angry at the lack of information from police, 48 hours after the man’s death.
Kowanyama councillor Jacob Josiah described the deceased as a family man who loved working and was always ready to help other members of the community.
Another local man, Fitzroy Laurence, said the family was in shock but united in seeking answers.
"We’re not going to lay down until this has been resolved," he said.
Officers on duty
Kowanyama mayor Robbie Sands previously called for calm in the community and outlined the need for a complete and transparent investigation.
Mr Sands said there was "not a lot of trust in the [investigation] process because police investigate police".
"We just want to make sure that there's a transparent process and people who were responsible for looking after our deceased loved one that passed away in the watchhouse need to be held accountable."
Queensland Police said the man was taken into custody on Wednesday over allegations of domestic and family violence.
They said the man was found unresponsive in a cell and taken to a medical clinic, where he was declared dead.
Peaceful protest
Deputy mayor Cameron Josiah said: "Quite a few family members who were very close with uncle are very, very pissed off, wanting to know what's happened."
Mr Josiah said the community had been told to expect some information but residents were still in shock.
Mr Sands said the state government needed to consider the recommendations from the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody.
"That watchhouse is now a stat amongst the other 400-odd Indigenous people who have passed away since the 1992 royal commission," Mr Sands said.
Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council CEO Kevin Bell said the man's body was flown from the community this morning.
"For the guys to be able to have held it together as well as they have is a testament to the leadership of the councillors and some of the some of the respected elders and men and women within the community," Mr Bell said.
In a statement, Queensland Police said they were "operating in Kowanyama with understanding for family and community at this difficult time".
"This includes sensitive communication with members of a peaceful protest in Kowanyama today," police said.
"As is procedure, QPS personnel who were present at the watchhouse that day have since left the community.
"Local officers, together with additional police support are talking with the local community, especially family members and community leaders to maintain calm and ensure safety in Kowanyama."
The QPS spokesperson confirmed earlier this week the state coroner had been advised of the man’s death, and that the Crime and Corruption Commission would provide independent oversight of the Ethical Standards Command investigation.
