Northern Territory Police have arrested 3 males following reports early this morning of an alleged assault on a woman outside Alice Springs Hospital before she was chased inside by offenders armed with machetes.
About 6.15am, police responded to reports of a disturbance inside the Emergency Department waiting room after the 19-year-old victim and several friends were allegedly chased into the hospital.
The victim and her friends sought refuge in a security office, where security staff secured the door.
It is alleged the offenders then brandished machetes in the public waiting area before fleeing the scene in a white Holden Commodore.
Police responded immediately, with the Dog Operations Unit deployed alongside general duties officers.
The white Commodore was later sighted and pursued north of town; however, the pursuit was terminated due to safety considerations.
About 9.15am, a member of Dog Operations with canine member Axe located the Commodore in bushland north of Alice Springs.
Five males surrendered to police; however, it is believed three others fled the scene on foot prior to police arrival.
A 14-year-old male and two 19-year-old males remain in police custody. Two other males were released pending further investigations.
Earlier in the morning, police had responded to several reports of the same white Holden Commodore sedan driving around the Alice Springs CBD with occupants allegedly armed with machetes.
About 4.57am, police responded to reports of a fight taking place outside the hospital, with one male armed with a machete. The group dispersed prior to police arrival.
Investigations are ongoing and additional suspects have been identified.
Police are urging anyone with information, including dashcam footage of the white Holden Commodore travelling in the CBD during the early morning hours, to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 and quote reference number P26047306.
