Northern Territory Police are calling for witnesses in relation to an attempted child abduction that occurred in Alice Springs yesterday.

At around 7am on Wednesday 4 December, police were called to a child welfare report in Araluen. Upon arrival, police were informed that an adult male had allegedly entered the residence and attempted to abduct a child from within. Nearby residents were alerted by the child, resulting in the male fleeing the immediate area.

Thanks to witnesses who quickly came to the aid of the child, police were able to get a description of the male, locating him in the area and taking him into custody a short time later. 

He was charged with Abduct child under 16 years of age, Aggravated burglary, Aggravated assault, and Theft, and was remanded to appear in Alice Springs Local Court today.

Acting Commander Megan Blackwell of the Southern Domestic Violence and Youth Command said, “If it weren’t for the quick thinking of the community and quick response by police, this matter may have resulted in something much more serious.

“I am pleased to say the child was not injured during the ordeal.”

Police are appealing to any witnesses who may have seen a shirtless adult male with dreadlocks and black pants in that area of Blain Street, Araluen in the early hours of Wednesday morning to contact police on 131 444.  Please quote reference NTP2400122872. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.