Police evacuated the Smith Street Mall in Darwin this afternoon after a report that a suspicious item was left in one of the shops.
Police received a report just before 2.30 pm from the proprietor of a Mall book shop. The woman told police a male left a backpack in her shop telling her it contained a bomb.
Members of the Territory Response Section were called to the scene to examine the suspicious item, however it has since been declared to be a hoax.
The offender is described as being a Caucasian male in his late teens, about 158cms tall, medium build and dark curly hair, wearing a black shirt with a white motif and black tracksuit pants with white stripes. The bag which was left in the shop was a black backpack with pink writing.
Police urge anyone that may recognise this male, or who may have any information in relation to the event, to contact them on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Members advise that this area has now been declared safe and thank everyone involved for their assistance.


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