A 16-year-old male has been arrested in relation to a vehicle that was stolen and driven dangerously through Tennant Creek overnight.

At 3:20pm yesterday, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre (JESCC) received a report that a Toyota Hilux had been stolen from a car rental business on Paterson Street.

It is alleged two female youths attended the business before stealing car keys to the Hilux from a desk and fleeing the scene in the vehicle. At 3:55pm, the Hilux was located by police abandoned in nearby bushland and was towed to the police compound.

Around 9:05pm, unknown offenders entered the compound and stole the Hilux, using it to ram through the locked gates. It was observed driving dangerously throughout Tennant Creek, during which it allegedly drove directly at police multiple times, forcing members to take evasive actions to avoid a collision.

Two police pursuits were initiated but subsequently terminated for safety reasons.

Police CCTV operators later observed the vehicle being abandoned on Peko Road. Police attended and arrested the 16-year-old male driver.

Investigations remain ongoing to identify the outstanding offenders and police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444, please quote reference NTP2500088174. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.