Northern Territory Police have arrested two youths following an aggravated burglary in Katherine overnight, as officers responded to heightened youth-related disturbances across the CBD.
At about 12:45am, police CCTV operators observed a group smashing the front window of a service station on Katherine Terrace.
Two teenage girls allegedly used a scooter and other objects to repeatedly strike the window and create an opening. An unidentified male youth then allegedly entered the business and stole property.
CCTV operators tracked the group as they left the area and directed police, who arrested two 14-year-old girls nearby. The scooter allegedly used during the incident was also recovered.
The pair were taken to the Katherine Watch House and are expected to be charged with aggravated burglary and property offences.
Police are working to identify the male youth involved.
Katherine police dealt with more than 130 youths congregating in the CBD over the weekend, following an influx of visitors to the region for the Big Rivers Football League Grand Final. Additional patrols were conducted as police responded to disturbances and worked to prevent further offending.
Superintendent Mark Bland APM said "Our members managed a significant number of young people in the Katherine CBD over the weekend while continuing to respond quickly to reported offending.
"The actions of a small number of individuals placed considerable demand on police and caused substantial damage to a local business. Officers used the CCTV network effectively to identify and arrest two alleged offenders within half an hour.
"Police will maintain a visible presence across Katherine and urge parents, carers and responsible adults to know where young people in their care are, particularly late at night."
Investigations are continuing. Anyone with information about the unidentified male youth is urged to contact police on 131 444 and quote reference P26268614.
