Northern Territory Police have arrested six men following an overnight crime spree that saw four vehicles stolen across Darwin.
The incident began shortly before 8pm when police received reports of two stolen vehicles. The owner of a stolen Toyota Hilux was able to track their vehicle to Dinah Beach Boat Ramp, where it had been abandoned. A second stolen vehicle, a white Nissan Navara, was later located at Holmes Jungle by Strike Force Trident officers.
The offenders had continued their offending after abandoning the first vehicles. At Dinah Beach Boat Ramp, they allegedly stole a red Toyota Troop Carrier after disconnecting and leaving behind the attached boat trailer.
The group then drove to Charles Darwin University, where they allegedly rammed through a gate and stole a Toyota 75 Series Landcruiser.
Both stolen vehicles were reported driving dangerously across Darwin, including doing burnouts and reckless manoeuvres in the Yarrawonga.
Strike Force Trident deployed tyre deflation devices at exit points on Batten Road and Amy Johnson Drive. The operation was successful, with both stolen vehicles struck by the devices as they exited the area, without the offenders initially realising.
The stolen Land Cruiser was later abandoned on Boulter Road, with its occupants fleeing on foot. Police have identified the three adult male occupants, who are known to police, and investigations to locate them remain ongoing.
The second vehicle, the red Troop Carrier, travelled towards Crocodylus Park before also being abandoned. Strike Force Trident and Dog Operations, established a cordon and a search of the area.
Patrol Dog Cheeko successfully tracked and located three men, aged 20, 27 and 27, who were arrested without incident. One of the men had fallen into the water.
Earlier today, Dog Operations Unit assisted with the arrest of the remaining offenders, two 17-year-old males and one 19-year-old male.
Senior Sergeant Darren Burns praised the coordinated police response.
"This was an outstanding effort by Strike Force Trident, Dog Operations and responding members who worked together to quickly track and arrest those responsible.
"The offenders involved are known to police and have a history of offending. They have no regard for the impact these crimes have on innocent Territorians.
"Stealing people's vehicles and using them to drive recklessly through our city puts lives at risk, and police will relentlessly pursue you and bring you before the courts."
Media note: body worn footage is available upon request.
