Officers from Operation Dawson have arrested five youth after a number of vehicles were damaged while parked in a Larapinta carpark last night.

The officers were conducting a proactive patrol of the area when one of them observed a male attempting to smash a car window just before 7pm.

On pulling into the carpark, Police noted a group attempting to run from the area. After a short foot chase, five were apprehended and taken back to the Watchhouse.

Two girls, aged 11 and 13-years-old have been released pending further enquiries, and three youths aged 12, 12 and 14 are assisting police with their investigation.

Enquiries are being made as to whether there were any other co-offenders involved in this incident.

At this stage 38 vehicles received damaged with windows smashed or panels spray painted.

Investigations continue.