Serious Crime Detectives are investigating an assault and robbery of a taxi driver overnight.

Detective Senior Constable Justin Scott said the driver picked up an unknown male at the Casuarina Square taxi rank just after 8:00pm.

“The passenger instructed the driver to pull over on Elrundie Avenue, Palmerston. Once stationary the passenger got out of the vehicle, walked to the driver’s side window and punched the driver several times to the head.

“The passenger then opened the driver’s side door, and stole the driver’s wallet before fleeing towards Davoren Circuit. Police and St John ambulance attended, and the driver was conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital with a suspected concussion and facial injuries.

“The offender is described as being of Aboriginal appearance, aged between 18 and 24 years old, with a moustache, wearing a black baseball cap, grey t-shirt and black shorts.

“Police urge anyone with any information to contact them on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.”