Northern Territory Police have arrested six youths in relation to a stolen motor vehicle that was sighted driving dangerously in Alice Springs on Saturday evening.
Around 11.05pm, police received reports of a stolen taxi being driven dangerously by several youths in the Alice Springs CBD before heading towards the Sadadeen area.
A co-ordinated police pursuit involving members from Strike Force Viper, TRG, Operation Ludlow, the Drone Unit and general duties members was initiated. The pursuit resulted in the stolen taxi being apprehended via the successful deployment of tyre deflation devices on Stott Terrace.
Six youth offenders fled the vehicle, and all were apprehended after a short foot chase.
Five male offenders aged 12, 13, 14, 14, 14, and a 15-year-old female, were taken into custody. Two are expected to be charged with property and traffic related offences to appear in court at a later date. Four of the youths have been dealt with under the provision of the Youth Justice Act (2005).
Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Marcus Becker said, "I want to acknowledge and commend the work of all units involved in this apprehension.
"The coordinated response on Saturday evening reflects the excellent policing work of our frontline officers as part of Operation Ludlow.
"The use of drones in this incident highlights how effective they are as a policing tool to allow for a safe resolution of a potentially dangerous incident."
Police urge anyone with information, including dash cam or CCTV footage, to contact police on 131 444 and quote reference NTP24000127704. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.
