Police in Alice Springs are mounting a special operation to combat the recent increase in assaults in the town.

Superintendent Michael Murphy said there had been a number of opportunistic offenders in town who were targeting people walking alone late at night.

"During the month of April, whilst we've been very encouraged by the fall in property crime and anti-social behaviour, we did receive four of these reports," Superintendent Murphy said.

"Whilst there doesn't appear to be any clear links at this stage, two of the incidents occurred in close proximity on the North side of Alice Springs. The victims being targeted appear to be young men who are walking home alone at night."

Supt Murphy said police would allocate specific resources to patrols to stop this offending and to arrest perpetrators.

"We will conduct patrols in both marked and unmarked police cars. They'll also be talking to people about personal safety and assist them to get home if need be.

"Our priority is to keep people safe. These attacks on vulnerable people are largely opportunistic and will not be tolerated. It is very important that members of the community employ simple personal safety practices to reduce the opportunity for offending".

Police urge anyone with information regarding these incidents or who wishes to report suspicious activity to ring CrimeStoppers 1800 333 000

Media Contact:
Theresa Kuilboer
8951 8825