Northern Territory Police have charged a 13-year-old female after an assault in Alice Springs overnight.
At 8:40pm, a 33-year-old female was exiting the Todd Mall when she allegedly had her handbag stolen by a group of up to five youths. The victim followed the offenders to the corner of Gregory Terrace and Hartley Street, where she was allegedly assaulted by the group.
A bystander intervened and the youths fled the scene. The woman received minor injuries.
CCTV operators identified the youths and Alice Springs Community Safety and Social Order members arrested three females, aged 13, 13 and 15, a short time later.
Two of the youths were released pending further investigations.
The Alice Springs Criminal Investigation Branch has since charged the remaining 13-year-old with one count of aggravated assault. She was bailed to appear in court at a later date.
Senior Sergeant Adam Donaldson said, "This was a traumatic ordeal for the victim and police would like to thank the members of the public who quickly intervened and called police.
"Anyone who witnessed either the theft or assault is urged to contact police on 131 444. Please quote reference 10124534. You can also make an anonymous report through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000."
