Serious Crime Squad Detectives are investigating an assault on a woman this morning at a carpark in Stuart Park.

Police responded to a report around 4:00 this morning relating to a woman suffering facial injuries at the McDonalds carpark on the Stuart Highway.

Detective Sergeant Graeme Wheeler said it is alleged the 22-year-old woman and her friend were sitting in the carpark when two vehicles, one being a Blue Toyota Hilux, entered the vicinity.

“It is alleged a man exited the Hilux with a shirt over his head and proceeded to assault the victim with a bat. The offender then fled the scene with the woman’s handbag,” Detective Sergeant Wheeler said.

“The woman was taken to Royal Darwin Hospital and was treated for her injuries and has since been released.

“Police treat these incidents very seriously and will not tolerate this behaviour, it was a very cowardly act.

“Police continue to investigate and ask anybody who may have witnessed the incident, to contact Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”