At approximately 4:00pm yesterday police were called to the Greater Union Birch Carrol and Coyle Cinema complex in Casuarina in relation to criminal damage being made to a viewing screen.

On attendance police observed that a viewing screen in one of the theatres had been slashed and the estimated damage is believed to be $20, 000 or more.

Casuarina Police Acting Superintendent John Ginnane said the damage was pointless.

"It appears that at least one person has entered the theatre between 10:30am and midday whilst the theatre was empty, damaged the screen, set off a fire extinguisher and then left through a rear exit door," A/Supt Ginnane said.

"We're pursuing a number of avenues of enquiry, but it has to be said that this appears to be without purpose. There is no possible benefit to anyone by having a cinema screen slashed. The only result for the offender is a lot of people's temporary inability to watch a movie."

"I have no doubt that a motive will reveal itself in time, even if that motive is rank stupidity. Generally, people who act in this manner can't keep it to themselves and tell someone so we would appreciate hearing from anyone with information."

Anyone who may have any information or witnessed any suspicious activity at the time of this incident are asking to contact Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or http://www.nt.crimestoppers.com.au/.


Media contact:
Kyla Raby
8922 3365