Northern Territory Police are currently conducting a search for a man who went missing near Bickerton Island.

Senior Sergeant Tony Deutrom said two men, aged 16 and 38 departed Numbulwar in a small aluminium dingy for Bickerton Island on Wednesday morning.

“It appears the men experienced difficulties with the boat as they approached Woody Island.

“The 16-year-old male has jumped over board with a fuel can and swam back to the coast of Bickerton Island to alert community members, where they have conducted their own search and located the dinghy.”

Authorities were alerted to the situation around 10:00am yesterday and launched a search and rescue for the 38-year-old man.

“Police are particularly concerned for the welfare of the missing man, who has pre-existing medical conditions,” Senior Sergeant Deutrom said.

Police are currently conducting an air, sea and land searches and are utilising all resources in assistance with the Water Police, Anindilyakwa Sea Rangers, GEMCO staff and community members.