The NT Police Force has arrested a 17-year-old male in relation to an aggravated robbery that occurred in Katherine early this morning.
Around 1:40am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre (JESCC) received a report that a 32-year-old female had been threatened by a group of males while she slept in her vehicle at the Katherine Hot Springs carpark.
The victim was forced to exit the vehicle, fearing for her safety, and the offenders then allegedly entered it and fled the scene.
The victim did not report any injuries as a result of the incident.
A short time later, the JESCC received further reports that a group of males allegedly threatened a security officer at the corner of Giles Street and First Street while attempting to steal his vehicle. They were unsuccessful and fled the scene in the stolen vehicle.
Police deployed and, with the assistance of CCTV operators, located the stolen vehicle travelling south on the Stuart Highway out of Katherine, where a tyre deflation device was successfully deployed. The offenders subsequently turned back toward Katherine and on to Victoria Highway where they went down a small embankment and abandoned the vehicle.
The offenders fled in different directions along the Katherine River, with one 17-year-old male arrested and taken into custody.
Three offenders remain outstanding, and investigations are ongoing. The vehicle was seized for forensic procedures to take place.
Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number P26015778. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.
