LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Sir – Alice Springs police continued with the increased patrols last night because of the continued high numbers of anti-social behaviour and property damage.
There were eight reports of property damage in the CBD area ranging from broken windows to damaged vehicles. Police engaged with and conveyed 34 youths home and took 42 people into protective custody.
Despite the efforts of police, large numbers of youth remained in the CBD area into the early hours of the morning. At about 1:30am police attended a report of property damage at a Gap Road business. When the three officers arrived on foot, they identified a large group of youth on South Terrace near Tuncks Causeway.
Members conducting a foot patrol approached a large group of youths on South Terrace who were causing a general disturbance.
Several people in the group began throwing large rocks at the police officers. They were able to push the group back towards the Todd River while additional units attended. More members of the group started throwing large rocks at the officers.
On arrival of additional units, the group dispersed into the river area and into the hills near Olive Pink Botanical Gardens. A number of small fires were set fire to nearby scrub by the group with NTFRS called to attend the fires.
During the event, passing motorists were also pelted with rocks.
None of the group have been positively identified and we are asking anyone with information to contact them.
The main protagonist of the incident is described as a male aged in his late teens / early twenties, of Aboriginal appearance. He is of medium build and wearing a pink /red coloured t-shirt.
“The group numbered more than 50, with youths in varying age brackets. There were no injuries.
Inquiries are continuing to identify and locate offenders.
Anyone with information is asked to call 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Police will continue to maintain a strong presence in the CBD and encourage the public to report any incidents they observe.
Superintendent Travis Wurst
Alice Springs Police
UPDATE 3:00pm
Police have charged a 14-year-old male after he allegedly stole a handbag from woman at a fast food restaurant in Alice Springs CBD yesterday.
A 41-year-old woman placed her handbag on top of the table she was sitting at. Police allege the youth stole her handbag then pushed a 50-year-old woman out of his path and fled from the premises.
An off duty police officer was alerted to the incident and ran after the youth apprehending him on Bath Street. He was then arrested by police.
This was great work by the off duty officer and members of the public who came to assist.
The stolen handbag was returned to the woman and the youth was charged with aggravated robbery and resist police.
He will appear in Alice Springs Youth Justice Court on 17 April.
Detective Superintendent Brent Warren
Alice Springs Police