Police have arrested four males this morning in Alice Springs in relation to a robbery which occurred outside Toddy's Backpackers.

Police were called to the hostel on Gap Rd at around 5am this morning where it is alleged that a group of up to 15 persons had assaulted a tourist and stolen a suitcase.

The main offender was armed with a hockey stick and he had struck the tourist across the face with the stick prior to stealing his suitcase.

A short time later members were called to another disturbance and subsequently arrested two males aged 18 and 20, and a youth aged 14 in relation to this robbery.

A further male youth aged 14, the main offender, was arrested late this morning in relation to the robbery.

A majority of the victims property has been recovered. Regional Investigations Detectives are continuing enquiries.

The victims injuries consisted of bruising and swelling to his mouth, and two chipped front teeth, as well as the trauma associated with such an attack.

"This is an unprovoked cowardly attack, and I urge any person that witnessed this incident or has information relating to it to contact Police" said Detective Sergeant Jon Beer.

Police can be contacted on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.


Media contact:
Natalie Bell
0417 770 686