Northern Territory Police, through the dedicated efforts of Strike Force Trident, have successfully apprehended multiple youths involved in two separate series of criminal activities across several suburbs in the Greater Darwin Region this week.
Commencing on Monday night in Berrimah, a group of four youths unlawfully entered multiple commercial premises. They located several mobility scooters at one premises, which they then used to travel to East Arm, where further unlawful entries took place.
In one incident, a Toyota Hilux was unlawfully taken and subsequently abandoned in Johnston. Another unlawful entry occurred in Johnston, leading to the theft of a Toyota RAV4. Trident's vigilant efforts led to the spotting of this stolen vehicle in the Marrara area at about 6:40am, resulting in the apprehension of three youths, aged 14 and 15.
The youths have been charged with various property-related offences and are now remanded. They are scheduled to appear in court today.
The second series of criminal activities unfolded in Coconut Grove early yesterday morning, involving a group of five youths. They first unlawfully entered a commercial premises and later a residential property, stealing a Mazda CX5.
Subsequently, the stolen vehicle was driven to Fannie Bay, where the group attempted to enter another commercial premises without success. They then proceeded to Coolalinga, unlawfully entering a bottle shop and making off with a quantity of alcohol.
While returning from Coolalinga, the stolen vehicle experienced a flat tyre in Yarrawonga. The occupants stopped to change the tyre, and during this time, a Good Samaritan attempted to assist but was unfortunately assaulted by one of the youths, who then stole his vehicle. This second stolen vehicle was later found abandoned in Gray.
Later in the afternoon, members of Strike Force Trident and the Dog Operations Unit successfully arrested three female youths, aged 13 and 14, who were involved in these incidents. These individuals have been released from custody and will be addressed under the Youth Justice Act 2005 provisions.
Additional offenders have been identified, and investigations are ongoing to determine their whereabouts.
Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Dale Motter-Barnard, heading Strike Force Trident, acknowledges residents' concerns regarding the recent criminal activities.
"Police want to assure the public that we're diligently working within the legislative framework to bring those causing distress to justice. We encourage residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, as this cooperation is crucial to maintaining the safety and security of our neighbourhoods."
Anyone with information about these incidents who has yet to speak with police is urged to contact police at 131 444 or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.
