Palmerston General duties and police beat members arrested four males yesterday in relation to the assault of a 15-year-old boy at the Palmerston Bus Exchange.

The victim was waiting to catch a bus at about 4:00pm with friends when he was allegedly approached by four males aged 14, 15, 16 & 18-years-old. A brief argument ensued before the offenders surrounded him and proceeded to assault him by pushing, punching and kicking him.

He was taken to Farrar Medical Centre and was later referred to a dentist for damage to his jaw and teeth.

Palmerston members were on the scene within three minutes and apprehended three of the offenders a short time later. The fourth offender was later arrested at his home.

The offenders are due to appear in Darwin Magistrates Court today in relation to the following offences:

Aggravated assault
Cause serious harm
Engage in violent conduct

Police believe this was an unprovoked assault not related to any animosity between schools.

Superintendent Wayne Jenkinson says "Proactive policing and the quick response of Police Beat members resulted in the quick apprehension of these callous offenders".

"Police use various tools around Palmerston to minimise the risk of these incidents from occurring. This offence was captured on CCTV cameras, the Palmerston Police Beat Mobile Police Station was operating from the Palmerston Bus Exchange yesterday, with foot patrols of both the exchange and shopping precinct being undertaken; this occurs on a daily basis.

"It is extremely sad that despite these efforts this type of cowardly attack can still occur".

Police will continue to actively police the bus exchange in partnership with other agencies such as the Transit Security Officers.

Any one who may have witnessed the event or who has further information is urged to contact Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Media Contact:
Rickie Scoot
8922 3185