The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested two offenders after police were assaulted during unrest in Wadeye on Friday evening.
Around 6:10pm, police attended a residence in the community to arrest a 17-year-old male in relation to assaulting a worker, going armed in public and unlawfully damaging property.
During the arrest, police were surrounded by a crowd that became hostile. Members of the crowd allegedly threw projectiles at police, including rocks, window louvres and metal bars.
A 34-year-old female, allegedly armed with an edged weapon, was identified as inciting the crowd. When she was arrested, she allegedly bit the arresting officer on their arm, breaking the skin.
A 26-year-old male also confronted police during the unrest, allegedly armed with a star picket, and made threats at police and struck an officer twice before fleeing the scene.
Due to the risk, police were forced to withdraw from the location, at which time two police vehicles were allegedly damaged by the crowd. The arrested offenders were conveyed to the local police station, and the two injured members were treated for minor injuries.
The crowd subsequently dispersed and there is no ongoing unrest at this time.
The 17-year-old male and 34-year-old female have been remanded to face court today. Investigations are ongoing and further arrests are expected, including locating and arresting the 26-year-old male for assaulting police.
Senior Sergeant Byron May said, “Alcohol is a significant contributing factor to this unrest and Northern Territory Police remain committed to working with the Community Elders and our local partners to reduce the alcohol-related violence in the Wadeye district.
“The community has been extremely helpful in identifying the offenders and we thank them for their assistance”.
Anyone with information is urged to attend their local police station or contact police on 131 444, quoting reference NTP2600069021. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au.
