Northern Territory Police have arrested a 49-year-old man in connection with a serious assault that occurred on 1 October 2024, following a proactive and coordinated operation by the Serious Crime Squad and Dog Operations Unit.

The incident, which took place in the Parap area, involved a domestic assault in which the victim, a woman in her 40s, sustained head lacerations and a punctured lung, before a witness intervened and the man ran from the area. Shortly after, a second witness found the injured woman and called an ambulance.

Strike Force Lyra members and Serious Crime Detectives have been actively investigating the case and following all leads to locate the offender, who had been evading police. Yesterday, officers received information about the man’s whereabouts near bushland in Yarrawonga. In response, Patrol Dog Daly and his handler were deployed to the area.

Patrol Dog Daly successfully tracked and located the suspect, who attempted to flee through thick bushland before surrendering without incident when confronted by the dog and handler team. The man was subsequently taken into custody.

He has since been charged with unlawfully causing serious harm, engaging in conduct that contravenes a Domestic Violence Order, and going armed in public.

Detective Senior Sergeant Andrew Kren from the Serious Crime Squad commended the swift response by the Dog Operations Unit and the assistance provided by the community. “This is a prime example of how proactive policing and collaboration between units can quickly resolve serious incidents, ensuring the safety of our community,” he said.

The man has been remanded and is scheduled to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

Police are continuing to investigate the matter and are calling for any further witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.