Using Monte Carlo simulations we report a homogeneous to inhomogeneous
transition in colloidal dispersions as a function of surface charge d
ensity of the particles and ionic strength. Homogeneous crystalline su
spensions are found to develop voids coexisting with dense ordered and
disordered structures beyond a critical charge density. The present r
esults explain the reported experimental observations of stable voids
in equilibrium with ordered and disordered structures, which suggest l
ong-range attraction between the particles. The limitations of the the
Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek potential are discussed in the light
of the present results.