Northern Territory Police have arrested a 21-year-old male following an alleged aggravated assault which occurred in Alice Springs overnight.

Police were called to the incident at a service station on Railway Terrace around 10:30pm. Police allege the offender knocked an elderly male to the ground before punching him multiple times whilst attempting to steal his bag. Bystanders intervened and stopped the assault and the victim was conveyed to Alice Springs Hospital with facial injuries.

The offender was apprehended by police last night following a short foot chase. Police expect to charge him with aggravated assault and robbery later today.

Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to notify police on 131444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Please quote reference number 9032510.