Sly grog runners have been warned by one of the Northern Territory’s top Police Officers they face stiff penalties attempting to smuggle alcohol into dry communities.

The caution comes after a Victorian man was hit with more than $6,000 in fines after he was caught on-selling alcohol in Alice Springs.

Assistant Commissioner Jeanette Kerr said alcohol on-sellers target the most vulnerable and has a major impact on community safety.

“Alcohol is a significant contributor to family violence and anti-social behaviour within town camps and in the wider community,” she said

“We want to send a clear message to people from interstate who are looking at coming to Alice Springs and selling alcohol without a licence, anyone caught selling alcohol without a permit can face heavy fines up to $5,000 or even gaol time.”

Anyone with information about the on-selling of alcohol should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Police on 131 444.